The notion of 'wrapping' is fundamental in the Kanak society and particularly on Lifou Island where traditions are very strong. Metaphors around wrapping are found even in the sexual representation of social life. The most common one to designate women is the reference to 'ka xet', the young banana leaves used in the preparation of 'bougna' or 'itra'. The expression 'ame la föe, ka xet ne hnalapa' defines the role of women in the community by equating it with an 'envelope' which maintains the family union.