https://www.facebook.com/100063759933579/posts/1232325022236151/?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=TUg89VLivF2lQt7m#

Radio Cook Islands - The Voice of the Nation - April 27, 2027

FAMILY HONOURS WWI VETERAN TETUANUI (FARIU) ARAPARI AT RSA GATHERING
A number of events were held at the RSA in Nikao following the dawn service yesterday. Among them was a commemorative gathering for the family of Tetuanui (Fariu) Arapari, who served during World War I.
Every year, the family of Tetuanui (Fariu) Arapari comes together to honour their papa through the sharing of stories about his life — both during his time serving in the war and the years that followed. This year the turnout was overwhelming.
Tetuanui (Fariu) Arapari, who enlisted under the name Fariu Tehui, was born in Tahiti on September 23, 1900. He served as part of the 3rd Rarotongan Contingent within the Māori Contingent of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF). His journey began when he embarked aboard the vessel ‘Manuka’ on June 13, 1918, bound for Suez, Egypt. His service number was 60782.
His contributions formed part of the broader efforts made by Pacific Islanders who played crucial roles in support operations such as logistics and construction during the campaigns in Sinai and Palestine against the Ottoman Turks. These soldiers faced significant hardships, including language barriers, unfamiliar climates, and exposure to European diseases.
After the war, Papa Fariu returned to Rarotonga, where he lived until his passing on June 18, 1983, aged 82. His name is commemorated on the Cook Islands Roll of Honour Board at the RSA in Rarotonga, reflecting the enduring legacy of Pacific Islanders' contributions to the Anzac forces.
Dr. Rangiau Fariu, one of Tetuanui’s sons, shared memories of growing up under his father's watchful eye.
"I think when he came back, he never talked much about his time in the army. Some of the stories I heard today from the great-great-grandchildren were all new to me," he said.
"Growing up with him, I found him really hard. I wasn't allowed to do a lot of things that others my age were allowed to do. I wasn’t allowed to go out. I was almost like a girl that had to stay home — study, study, study, study. I got sick of it," he laughed.
"When I finally left home to go to medical school, I found a lot of freedom. But I don't regret the hard times. He taught me important lessons — how to look after myself, cook, do domestic chores, wash, and all that."
Dr. Fariu recalled that much of his childhood was spent with just his father, after his older siblings had left home.
"Although they were coming in the morning to work for him, most of the time it was just him and I — until he met his second wife," he said.
Reflecting on the day's event, Dr. Fariu described it as bittersweet.
"Today was... yeah, a lot of mixed feelings. Sadness and joy at the same time. I'm really proud of the great-great-grandchildren. It’s all thanks to Mahai who initiated all this. Now he wants each of my siblings to take turns every year," he said.
"I'm the ninth, so I guess I'll be looking at the nine-year gathering!" he laughed. "I need to tell my kids what transpired today and send them some videos. It was a great day. I enjoyed it. I really enjoyed the dawn parade this morning. It was very moving. Short, but good."