"Meherio": the story of three talented Tahitian mermaids

January 3, 2019 | Windsurfing
Meherio: a film documenting the lives of Mathilde Zampieri, Aelan Vaast and Vaimiti Teiefitu | Photo: Colter Johnson

French Polynesia is one of the most beautiful places in the world. But it also exports truly talented sportswomen.

"Meherio" is a documentary featuring professional windsurfer Mathilde Zampieri, as well as pro surfers Aelan Vaast and Vaimiti Teiefitu.

They are three of the most exciting young female watersports performers in French Polynesia. The 45-minute movie was shot by Colter Johnson.

"As a director. I feel that my primary responsibility in a project is to share a powerful story. I want to take the audience places they’ve never been," says Johnson.

"The three athletes featured in this film are truly inspiring, and my main goal for this project was to showcase their abilities against the epic backdrop of beautiful French Polynesia."

"Meherio" is a Tahitian word that means "mermaid." Watch these three young talents explore the sailing and surfing opportunities their islands have to offer.

They will find some shade at Teahupoo and chase down striking sunsets on Raiatea.

  • It's official. The World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) ratified two new outstanding accomplishments in windsurfing and kiteboarding.
  • Dutch environmental activist and windsurfer Merijn Tinga, also known as the "Plastic Soup Surfer," has made an audacious journey from Oslo to London, braving the North Sea's currents and winds, to call attention to the pervasive problem of plastic pollution.
  • Imagine gliding across a frozen lake, your sail catching the wind, and skis slicing through the ice and snow. Meet the sport that blends the thrill of windsurfing with the crisp, cold beauty of winter landscapes.
  • Planing is one of the most exciting skills you can master while windsurfing. It usually separates beginners from intermediate and advanced sailors. But what is the minimum wind speed to get flying over water?

The Surfing Christmas Gift Guide for 2023 | Explore our Christmas gift ideas for surfers