11 Nov 2024

Red Feather Money on Nendö Island

Today was our last day in the Solomon Islands, and we arrived at Nendö Island, the largest island in the Santa Cruz islands. After a short Zodiac cruise, four trucks took us to Noipe Village, where we were treated to an incredible performance with dancers adorned with facial jewellery unique to Nendö Island.

We had the privilege of seeing expert village craftsman construct Tevau, also known as ‘Red Feather Money’, with feathers taken from the Scarlet Honeyeater (Myzomela cardinalis). Tevau is one of the world’s most remarkable currencies and originated in the Santa Cruz Islands - first manufactured on Nendö Island.

In a special way to end the day, the village prepared a range of delicious local delicacies for us, ranging from breadfruit to fresh coconut. 

Images © S. Bradley & L.Sanson, Heritage Expeditions