R.A.P. is dedicated to studying, excavating and preserving the ancient archaeogical treasures of prehistoric Polynesia, with a particular focus on the relatively unknown island of Raivavae. Raivavae is located in the Austral Islands, south of Tahiti on the Tropic of Capricorn, Latitude is 23º 52' S, Longitude 147º 40' W. To accomplish these important goals an international team of world-class Archaeologists, ethnographers and volunteers has been assembled.

Several of these researchers have extensive experience in the archaeological exploration and excavation of the Pacific Islands of Polynesia, including significant research on Easter Island, as well as the Austral, Marquesas and Society Islands.

The R.A.P. web site is dedicated to documenting the work of these researchers, whose goal is to share their discoveries with the world community. Throughout the life of the project we plan on submitting regular reports with accompanying photographs via the "field blog."