French Polynesia: Olympic torch relay to occur in Tahiti June 13

Increased security and localized transport disruptions will affect Tahiti, French Polynesia, 06:30-21:30 June 13 due to the Olympic torch relay. The torch will pass various areas before a festival at To'ata Square, 19:00-21:30. A few hundred people may gather at various points, with the largest attendance likely at the festival in Tahiti. The ten sections of the relay route with respective security deployment and traffic curbs are:

• 06:30-07:45: Fare Mahora Point to Teahupoo Town Hall

• 07:20-08:15: Teva I Uta to Papara

• 09:05-09:25: Golf Atimaono to Atimaono Park

• 09:10-10:15: Taravao Town Hall to Teaputa Site

• 10:00-11:05: Manu Ura Stadium to Tenania Bessert Complex

• 11:10-12:10: Papenoo Mouth to Mamu School

• 12:00-14:00: Museum of Tahiti and The Islands to Orohiti Park

• 13:30-14:35: Point Venus to Stade Venus

• 15:10-16:05: King's Tomb to Boris Leontieff Stadium

• 16:10-18:35: Aorai Park to To'ata Square

Authorities have not publicized any specific security threat to the event. Increased security is certain across Tahiti as a precaution, with the tightest security along the relay route. A 12-hour ban on the transport of weapons and large fireworks in or to public places will also be in place from 06:30 June 13.

Road closures and diversions will affect traffic. Curtailment and rerouting of public transport services are likely through June 13. Increased demand for alternative transport and road congestion are probable. An overflight ban will also affect the torch route, with exceptions for emergency and pre-approved use. Business disruptions are also likely; authorities have recommended businesses utilize telecommuting where possible to limit movement.