The CICC is alive and well in Mangaia with churches in Kaumata and Ivirua an interesting architectural mix of Gothic and Norman. These buildings are a pivotal part of community life. As is the main industry, “pupu” the tiny yellow land snails which emerge only after rain and are highly prized as hatband decorations and long “eis” for arriving and departing visitors. The gathering, processing, piercing and stringing of these miniscule shells is hugely time consuming. But there’s a high demand particularly in Tahiti and Hawaii. Hardly surprising considering the process behind their creation. Church starts at 10am.