All Kanak ceremonies and gatherings are accompanied by meals which constitute an important ceremonial contribution, mainly female, to the exchanges led by men. The commensality, sharing and ingestion of cooked foods are essential. They are characterized by the quality, variety and abundance of eagerly awaited foods such as 'bougna', this Kanak stew wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in hot stone 'ovens'. Appreciated and recognized, the different dishes are commented by all of the participants.