An International Watersports Event in Wallis and Futuna, August 9th to 16th, 2025
Organized by the Manatai Association, in collaboration with Wallis Kite Academy, Vakala, and ASPTT Nouméa Glisse and Famous Defi Wind.
1. Introduction
Manatai has quickly become one of the most significant watersports events in the Pacific. Since its launch in 2021, it has attracted participants from all over the region and beyond, with the goal of becoming an international reference. The 2025 edition, to be held from August 9th to 16th in Wallis and Futuna, promises to be even more impressive, bringing together professionals and amateurs in various disciplines such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing.
This event offers a unique opportunity for Wallis and Futuna to shine on the international stage while promoting local watersports and strengthening the island’s economy.
2. Strategic Objectives and Challenges
The 2025 edition of Manatai has ambitious goals, both in terms of sports and cultural and economic development. The key challenges are:
– Develop watersports: By engaging local youth, Manatai aims to popularize watersports disciplines while training a new generation of local athletes.
– Support the local economy: This event generates direct economic benefits for Wallis and Futuna’s businesses, hoteliers, restaurants, and artisans, while also attracting visitors to discover the island’s natural and cultural wealth.
– Promote culture and the environment: In addition to sports competitions, Manatai raises awareness about environmental protection and the preservation of Wallis’ lagoon, while celebrating the local culture through traditional canoeing and customary dances.
– Strengthen international relationships: With participants from New Caledonia, Australia, French Polynesia, and other countries, Manatai plays a key role in reinforcing ties between the islands of the Pacific.
3. Manatai’s Long-Term Vision
Beyond sports competitions, Manatai aims to become a driver of sustainable development for Wallis and Futuna. By investing in local infrastructure such as building access stairs to the sea and purchasing safety equipment for competitions, the event leaves a lasting legacy for future generations.
The long-term vision is to anchor Manatai as an annual international event while contributing to the cultural and ecological promotion of Wallis and Futuna.
4. Detailed Event Program
The Manatai 2025 program includes competitions, sports demonstrations, and cultural activities throughout the week.
• Saturday, August 9: Arrival of delegations, meeting with traditional authorities, and opening ceremony with a concert.
• Sunday, August 10: Competitions kick off (swimming, canoeing, sailing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, wing foil), with traditional dances and children’s activities.
• Monday, August 11: Second day of competitions with the same disciplines and cultural activities.
• Tuesday, August 12: Long-distance multisport regatta.
• Wednesday, August 13 to Friday, August 15: Sports demonstrations, friendly races, and final multisport regatta.
• Saturday, August 16: Departure of delegations after a week of sports events and cultural entertainment.
5. Local and International Impact
Manatai has a direct impact on the economic development of Wallis and Futuna. By attracting foreign delegations and visitors, the event stimulates the local economy through restaurants, accommodation services, and transportation. Local businesses also benefit from sales and services offered to participants and spectators.
In 2023, Manatai garnered more than 120,000 views on its videos, drawing attention from watersports enthusiasts around the world. The event thus provides invaluable international exposure for Wallis and Futuna.
6. The Role of Sponsors and Partners
Sponsors and partners play a key role in the success of Manatai. As a partner, you will benefit from unique visibility both locally and internationally.
Sponsors will have their logos featured on competitor gear (lycra shirts, t-shirts), in reception areas, and during cultural events. Tailored sponsorship packages are also offered to maximize visibility for participating companies.
With a growing international audience, Manatai represents a unique opportunity for companies that wish to align themselves with values of sustainable development, sport, and culture.
7. Ambassadors and Sponsors
The 2025 edition of Manatai will be supported by renowned watersports figures as event ambassadors:
– Phoebe Rocher, world champion junior in freestyle kitesurfing.
– Tom Hébert, two-time world freestyle kitesurfing vice-champion.
– Sarah Hébert, windsurfing world vice-champion.
These ambassadors will play a key role in mentoring local and international youth, while sharing their experience and passion. Their involvement adds credibility and prestige to the event.
8. Safety and Logistics
Safety is a top priority for Manatai. In collaboration with government services such as the Gendarmerie, Firefighters, and the Health Agency, a comprehensive plan will be implemented to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
Additionally, over 60 volunteers will be mobilized to ensure the smooth running of the event. These young volunteers will receive specific training in safety and event management, making Manatai a unique learning opportunity for the local youth.
9. Call to Action
By supporting Manatai 2025, you become a key player in the development of watersports, culture, and the economy in Wallis and Futuna. You will be contributing to a project that leaves a lasting legacy for the territory while offering unique visibility for your brand.
Join us as a partner in this major event and help make Manatai 2025 a resounding success. Contact our team to discuss the various partnership opportunities available.
