French Polynesia

The Flag of French Polynesia

The flag of French Polynesia is a vibrant symbol representing the culture and identity of this overseas collectivity of France. The flag features two red horizontal bands surrounding a wider white band, with the emblem of French Polynesia centered on the white stripe. This emblem, depicting a traditional outrigger canoe sailing under a golden sun over blue waves, encapsulates the heritage and natural beauty of the islands.

French Polynesia Flag Clip Art Images, Backgrounds, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the French Polynesia Flag Image

To download an image of the French Polynesia flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the French Polynesia Flag

The French Polynesia flag features a design rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Red and White Stripes: The flag consists of two red horizontal bands on the top and bottom, with a wider white band in the center. The red color symbolizes courage and the warrior spirit inherent in Polynesian culture, while the white represents purity, peace, and the pristine nature of the islands.
• Central Emblem: In the center of the white band is the coat of arms of French Polynesia. The emblem depicts a stylized outrigger canoe sailing on blue waves under a golden sun with rays.
• Outrigger Canoe: The canoe symbolizes the seafaring heritage and exploration spirit of the Polynesian ancestors.
• Five Human Figures: The figures in the canoe represent the unity of the five archipelagos that make up French Polynesia: the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Archipelago, the Marquesas Islands, the Austral Islands, and the Gambier Islands.
• Sun and Rays: The golden sun signifies life and energy, with rays symbolizing the warmth and vitality of the region.
• Blue Waves: The blue waves represent the vast Pacific Ocean, essential to the livelihood and culture of the Polynesian people.

The Origins and Design of the French Polynesia Flag

The flag of French Polynesia reflects the unique cultural identity and heritage of its islands. Officially adopted on November 23, 1984, the flag was designed to symbolize the unity and traditions of the Polynesian people within the framework of their status as an overseas collectivity of France. The flag combines traditional Polynesian symbols with colors that highlight both local identity and the connection to the French Republic.

The Birth of a Regional Symbol

The flag of French Polynesia was introduced following the granting of internal autonomy to the territory in 1984. The design was chosen to represent the distinct cultural heritage of the islands while acknowledging their administrative ties to France. The central emblem encapsulates elements significant to the Polynesian culture and environment.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the French Polynesia flag is deeply rooted in the traditions and natural beauty of the region:

• Red: Symbolizes courage and the warrior spirit of the Polynesian people.
• White: Represents purity, peace, and the pristine environment of the islands.
• Central Emblem: The sun, canoe, human figures, and ocean waves collectively embody the unity, heritage, and reliance on the sea that characterizes French Polynesia.

The Central Design Elements

Key elements of the French Polynesia flag include:

• Outrigger Canoe with Five Figures: Represents the unity and collaboration among the five archipelagos of French Polynesia.
• Sun with Rays: Symbolizes life, warmth, and the energy of the sun, essential to the islands’ climate and agriculture.
• Blue Waves: Depict the Pacific Ocean, vital to the culture and sustenance of the Polynesian people.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The flag was officially adopted by the Assembly of French Polynesia on November 23, 1984. While French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France, and the French national flag is also used, the local flag is widely displayed and recognized as a symbol of regional identity and autonomy.

The Flag in Modern Polynesian Identity

Today, the flag of French Polynesia is a prominent symbol of pride and cultural heritage. It is displayed at government buildings, during official events, and in various public and private contexts throughout the islands. The flag represents not only the political autonomy of French Polynesia but also the enduring traditions and communal spirit of its people.

The Significance of the French Polynesia Flag

The flag of French Polynesia holds a special place in the hearts of its inhabitants, symbolizing their rich cultural heritage, unity, and connection to the natural environment. Displaying the flag is a way to express regional pride and respect for the traditions and values of the Polynesian people.

When the Flag of French Polynesia Can Be Displayed

The flag of French Polynesia may be displayed on any day, especially during regional celebrations, cultural festivals, and official ceremonies. It is commonly flown alongside the national flag of France, reflecting both the local identity and the territory’s administrative status. The flag is treated with respect and is an important symbol during events that celebrate Polynesian culture and heritage.

Flag Days and Regional Holidays

Significant occasions when the flag is prominently displayed include:

• June 29 – Autonomy Day: Celebrated annually to commemorate the granting of internal autonomy to French Polynesia in 1984.
• Heiva i Tahiti: An annual cultural festival held in July, showcasing traditional Polynesian dance, music, and sports.
• July 14 – Bastille Day: The French national holiday is observed in French Polynesia, with the local flag displayed alongside the French flag during parades and celebrations.
• Local Community Festivals: Various islands and communities hold festivals throughout the year, where the flag is displayed to honor local customs and traditions.

Love for the Flag and Cultural Pride

The flag is a powerful expression of the Polynesian people’s pride in their heritage and way of life. It symbolizes their deep connection to the land and sea, the importance of family and community, and their vibrant cultural traditions. The flag is embraced by residents and the diaspora alike, often featured in art, clothing, and souvenirs that celebrate French Polynesia’s unique identity.

French Polynesia Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1F5 U+1F1EB
• UTF-16: D83C DDF5 D83C DDEB

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇵🇫
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇵🇫

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F5\1F1EB";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB";

// Java Example
String frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EB}";

// Ruby Example
french_polynesia_flag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EB}"

6. Perl

my $frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\x{1F1F5}\x{1F1EB}";

7. Python

french_polynesia_flag = "\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EB"

8. C#

string frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB";

9. Swift

let frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\u{1F1F5}\u{1F1EB}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *frenchPolynesiaFlag = @"\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EB";

11. JSON

{
  "frenchPolynesiaFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

french_polynesia_flag=$'\U1F1F5\U1F1EB'

14. Go (Golang)

frenchPolynesiaFlag := "\U0001F1F5\U0001F1EB"

15. Kotlin

val frenchPolynesiaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF5\uD83C\uDDEB"

About French Polynesia

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

French Polynesia is a collection of over 100 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, an overseas collectivity of France. It is located about halfway between California and Australia. The islands are spread over a vast area of the Pacific Ocean, roughly the size of Western Europe, but the land area is relatively small.

The geography of French Polynesia includes:

• Five main archipelagos: the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Archipelago, the Gambier Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the Austral Islands.
• Volcanic islands with rugged mountains, such as Tahiti and Moorea.
• Atolls, which are coral reefs that have formed around submerged volcanoes, like the islands in the Tuamotu Archipelago.
• Lagoon-rich islands with crystal-clear waters, teeming with marine life.

French Polynesia Map

Area and Population

French Polynesia covers a land area of approximately 4,000 square kilometers (1,600 square miles). As of 2022, the population is estimated to be around 280,000 people, with the majority residing on the island of Tahiti.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

The population of French Polynesia is diverse, with a mix of:

• Polynesians: the indigenous people, making up about 78% of the population.
• Europeans (mainly French): around 12%.
• Chinese: approximately 5%.
• Mixed ethnicities and other groups: the remainder.

Name and History

Origin of the Name “French Polynesia”

The name “French Polynesia” reflects the country’s status as an overseas collectivity of France and its location within the Polynesian subregion of Oceania. The islands were first named the “Society Islands” by Captain James Cook in the 18th century.

History

French Polynesia has a rich history that includes:

• Early Settlement: The islands were first settled by Polynesian navigators around 2000 BC.
• European Contact: European explorers arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries, with significant visits by Samuel Wallis, Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, and James Cook.
• French Colonization: France declared a protectorate over Tahiti in 1842 and annexed it as a colony in 1880.
• Nuclear Testing: Between 1966 and 1996, France conducted nuclear tests on the atolls of Mururoa and Fangataufa, leading to international protests.
• Autonomy: In 2004, French Polynesia became an overseas collectivity with increased autonomy, officially designated as an “overseas country” within the French Republic.

Government and Politics

Capital

Papeete is the capital city of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti. It serves as the administrative and economic center, housing government institutions and serving as the main gateway for international visitors.

Government and Politics

French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France with a degree of self-governance. The political structure includes:

• President of French Polynesia: The head of the local government, elected by the Territorial Assembly.
• Territorial Assembly: A legislative body consisting of 57 members elected by the population.
• French Administration: The High Commissioner of the Republic represents the French State, overseeing matters such as defense, justice, and security.

French Polynesia sends representatives to the French Parliament and is part of the European Union’s special territories.

Values and Culture

Core values in French Polynesian culture include community, respect for nature, and the importance of family and tradition. Polynesian culture is celebrated through music, dance, and art.

Religion

The predominant religion is Christianity, with:

• Protestantism: Practiced by about 54% of the population, largely due to the influence of early missionaries.
• Roman Catholicism: Followed by approximately 30%.
• Other religions and beliefs are also present, including indigenous spiritual practices.

Holidays

Major public holidays in French Polynesia include:

• Bastille Day: Celebrated on July 14, marking France’s national day.
• Heiva i Tahiti: A cultural festival in July, showcasing traditional Polynesian dance, music, and sports.
• Missionary Day: Celebrated on March 5, commemorating the arrival of Christianity.
• Autonomy Day: Celebrated on June 29, marking the granting of internal autonomy in 1984.

Demographics and Society

Language

The official languages of French Polynesia are French and Tahitian. French is used in government, education, and media, while Tahitian and other Polynesian languages are spoken widely among the local population.

Society and Sports

Sports play an important role in society, with popular activities including:

• Va’a (Outrigger Canoe Racing): Considered the national sport, with events like the Hawaiki Nui Va’a race.
• Surfing: French Polynesia is famous for its world-class surf spots, such as Teahupo’o.
• Football (Soccer): Played recreationally and competitively.

Safety

French Polynesia is generally considered safe for residents and tourists. Petty crime exists but is relatively low. Standard precautions are advised, especially when traveling in urban areas or remote islands.

Economy and Currency

Economy

The economy of French Polynesia is primarily driven by:

• Tourism: The main economic sector, attracting visitors to islands like Bora Bora and Tahiti.
• Pearl Farming: Notably black pearls, which are a significant export product.
• Agriculture: Including coconuts, vanilla, and noni fruit.
• Fishing: Both for local consumption and export.

The economy relies on financial assistance from France, and there is ongoing development to diversify economic activities.

Currency

The official currency is the CFP Franc (XPF), which is fixed to the Euro. The CFP Franc is used exclusively in French overseas collectivities in the Pacific.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

French Polynesian culture is rich and vibrant, characterized by:

• Traditional Dance and Music: Such as the ‘Ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance) and percussion music.
• Tattoos: An ancient practice with cultural significance, symbolizing identity and status.
• Art and Crafts: Including wood carvings, weaving, and the creation of traditional garments.

French Polynesia has inspired many artists, most notably painter Paul Gauguin, who spent several years living on the islands.

Cuisine

The cuisine is a blend of Polynesian and French influences, featuring:

• Poisson Cru: The national dish, consisting of raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
• Tahitian Vanilla: Used extensively in cooking and desserts.
• Tropical Fruits: Such as pineapple, mango, and papaya.
• Breadfruit and Taro: Staple foods in traditional Polynesian diets.

National Anthem

As an overseas collectivity of France, French Polynesia does not have an official national anthem of its own. However, “La Marseillaise,” the national anthem of France, is used for official purposes.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Transportation between the islands and within them includes:

• Air Travel: Air Tahiti operates domestic flights connecting the islands.
• Ferries and Boats: Regular ferry services operate between some islands, especially in the Society Islands.
• Road Transport: On larger islands like Tahiti, buses, taxis, and rental cars are available.

The main international gateway is Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti.

Time Zone

French Polynesia spans two time zones:

• Tahiti Time (TAHT): UTC-10:00, covering the Society Islands and Tuamotu Archipelago.
• Marquesas Time (MART): UTC-9:30, covering the Marquesas Islands.

Web and Phone Code

The internet country code for French Polynesia is “.pf”, and the international dialing code is +689.

French Polynesia: Things to See and Do

French Polynesia is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Explore the Islands

Visit the diverse islands, each offering unique experiences:

• Tahiti: The largest island, offering a mix of urban life in Papeete and natural attractions like waterfalls and mountains.
• Bora Bora: Known for its overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoon, and romantic ambiance.
• Moorea: Famous for its dramatic landscapes and pineapple plantations.
• Rangiroa: One of the world’s largest atolls, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Dive and Snorkel

Experience the vibrant marine life:

• Shark and Ray Feeding: Safely interact with blacktip reef sharks and stingrays in their natural habitat.
• Coral Gardens: Snorkel among colorful corals and tropical fish.
• Pass Diving: Dive in the passes of atolls like Fakarava, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Enjoy Cultural Activities

Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture:

• Attend a Polynesian Dance Show: Witness traditional dance performances with live music.
• Visit Marae Sites: Explore ancient Polynesian temples like Marae Arahurahu.
• Participate in Festivals: Events like Heiva i Tahiti celebrate dance, music, and sports.

Relax on Pristine Beaches

Unwind on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches:

• Matira Beach: Located in Bora Bora, known for its white sand and clear waters.
• Papenoo Beach: A black sand beach on Tahiti’s north coast, popular for surfing.

Explore Nature

Discover the islands’ natural wonders:

• Hiking: Trails like the hike to Mount Aorai offer panoramic views.
• Waterfalls: Visit cascades such as Fautaua Waterfall on Tahiti.
• Botanical Gardens: Explore the Harrison Smith Botanical Garden in Papeari.

Savor Local Cuisine

Delight your taste buds with local flavors:

• Food Markets: Visit places like Papeete Market for fresh produce and local delicacies.
• Traditional Polynesian Feast: Enjoy dishes cooked in an underground oven called an ‘ahima’a.

Shop for Unique Souvenirs

Bring home a piece of French Polynesia:

• Black Pearls: Purchase locally farmed Tahitian pearls.
• Tifaifai: Traditional Polynesian quilts made by hand.
• Monoi Oil: A fragrant oil made from coconut oil infused with tiare flowers.

Experience Lagoon Tours

Explore the lagoons by boat:

• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Observe marine life without getting wet.
• Sunset Cruises: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.