Which Polynesian islands developed large chieftainships before European contact?

Before European contact, several islands within the region now known as French Polynesia developed complex social hierarchies and large chieftainships. Specifically, these political structures were established on the islands of Tahiti, Bora-Bora, and Raiatea.1

These societies were characterized by a graded system of rank and authority, where high chiefs, known as arii nui, exercised significant power. This authority was supported by a priesthood and reinforced by supernatural sanctions, as the chiefs were viewed as repositories of sacred power and descendants of the gods. The social organization was deeply connected to the extended family and structured around local temples. While these societies were highly stratified, the relationship between the chiefs and their subjects was traditionally reciprocal.23