The French Polynesian islands lie between about 14°S and 25°S, in an area dominated by the Southeast trade winds. Winds are fairly steady at between 8-12 knots. Although they are called “Southeast Trades,” direction varies from NNE to SSE.
Sometimes, especially in the winter (June/July/August/September) in the Southern Hemisphere), a stronger wind pattern called a “Maramu” develops. This happens when a strong, persistent high pressure system develops in the Subtropical Ridge to the south of French Polynesia. Wind speeds are typically 25-30 knots and can last for several days.
More information is available in this document: http://svsoggypaws.com/files/French%20Polynesia%20Weather%20Compendium.pdf
