Ua Huka

Ua Huka and its magnificent arboretum

Ua Huka, an open crescent of the Northern Marquesas, conceals a myriad of tropical riches nestled in absolutely authentic nature. The queen island of Tapa, a Polynesian fabric made from the bark of a tree such as the banyan tree, offers magnificent hills which form a real playground for the animals which live there freely.

This mystical island is home to a remarkable arboretum, a haven for tropical plants. Located in Papuhakeikaha, this botanical reserve extends over 17 hectares and was created in 1974 to combat deforestation and the depletion of plant species on the island, consequences of the Ua Huka climate, but also the overpopulation of goats, horses and wild pigs.

The island’s arboretum is full of more than a thousand endemic species from all over the world, fruit trees and others. You will find the Marquesas palm, the Hokatu papaya, the Veveke breadfruit, the “tau” (cordia subcordata), the “miro” or pink wood, the badamier, the Tiare Tahiti, the mango tree, the bamboo, the ylang-ylang, the vanilla, the coffee, the lotus, the soursop tree, the gourd tree, the carambola tree, the caïmitier tree, the macadamia tree, etc.

Its citrus plantation (lemons, grapefruit, tangerines, etc.) is one of the largest in the world with nearly 300 varieties, 28 of which are marketed. It was decided since its foundation that this tropical reserve would be made available to the inhabitants of the island so that they could replant their land and thus participate in the plant repopulation effort.

A true research laboratory, the Ua Huka arboretum also contributes to the economic development of the island with a fruit processing factory, producing jams, candied fruits, fruit jellies, chutneys, etc. A beautiful harmony between nature and human needs…

A stone “tiki” (human or divine representation sculpted in stone or wood) is also located within the arboretum and ensures respect for this magical and absolutely wonderful place.