The Maniaba is seen as a 'holy' place in village. People are not to drive by (on bikes the get-off and walk/in motor vehicles they are to slowdown and quietly pass. It is a combination church, community center, council center, entertainment center and quest house for off-island family.

Every Conference program was in the Maniaba. A the participants were always early. If prayers started at 7am - they were praying at 6:55am ( this of course ment that the sleeping mats had to rolled up and put away). It was a joyful place ( however I (brian) must admit to missing chairs-I'm not a floor sitter.)