The Order of Tahiti Nui was created by the Assembly of French Polynesia on June 5th, 1996. This decision is to recognize and reward acquired merit and exceptional service, on behalf of the Territory, through Government service or private sector activity.
The Order of Tahiti Nui acknowledges exceptional service provided by the people of French Polynesia, whether they are native-born or from France. The Order also recognizes foreigners on the basis of meritorious service or their friendship towards French Polynesia.
The Order of Tahiti Nui has three officers. They are the President of the Government of French Polynesia, who serves as the Order's Grand Master and presides over the Council; the President of the Assembly of French Polynesia; and the President of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council.
The Order's maximum number of titleholders is 450, divided into four ranks Knights, Officers, Commanders and Grand Cross.
Description :
The Order of Tahiti Nui is a cross with four red-enameled branches with a ball at each end. There is a Tiare Tahiti flower in between each branch.
The cross is suspended from an enameled green and white Tiare Tahiti wreath.
The Territory's coat of arms is presented in the middle of the cross, with the raised inscription "Ordre de Tahiti Nui".
French High-commissioner, Jean Aribaud, made Commander in the Order of Tahiti Nui
French High-commissioner, Jean Aribaud, was made Commander in the Order of Tahiti Nui, before he was to leave French Polynesia for good.
A special dinner celebration was organised at the Presidency on November 14th, 2001, to thank the French Senior official for the special interest he showed to French Polynesia and its people, through its economic and cultural development.
