Tourism officials in Tahiti have unveiled a new online training initiative for travel agents, designed to teach them about French Polynesia as a destination.

The programme, created by Tahiti Tourisme, has been called Tahiti Tiare after the Tiare flower, a symbol of Tahitian life.

Agents can log on and complete nine lessons covering Tahitian themes such as the geography of the islands, local culture, transport and accommodation options – monitored throughout by an online tutor.

There is also a chatroom where trainees can discuss the topics covered.

At the end of each lesson, the agents must pass a multiple choice test before moving onto the next level.

Upon completion of certain levels they become eligible to receive rewards. Once all nine have been passed the agents become qualified Tahiti Tiare Agents and receive a Tiare Kit, giving details of workshops, events and familiarisation trips to French Polynesia.

Tahiti Tiare chief executive Dany Panero said: “We have worked closely with the trade over the last few years, arranging familiarisation trips and roadshows and to ensure this success is repeated and developed, we have created a dedicated training programme which we hope agents will find both useful and enjoyable.” Details: http://uk.tiaretahitiprogram.net