Cultural Connections Found At Polyfest
Festival director Terri Leo-Mauu said Polyfest provided a pathway for people to connect with their cultural backgrounds.
Sunday 24 March 2024 | 04:30
Young Pasifika people are demonstrating pride and passion for their cultural heritage at this week’s ASB Polyfest.
Tamaki Makaurau Auckland is the biggest hub of Pasifika people in Aotearoa, and Polyfest, which runs from March 20 - 23, provides a unique opportunity for Polynesian youth to embrace these indigenous backgrounds.
Over 200 teams from 69 schools across Aotearoa were in attendance to represent their ethnic backgrounds.
Related stories
Paid Advertisement | March 2024
Palemia’s classmate, Tamalisi Langi, echoed his sentiments.
As the leader of the Tongan team he said the festival helps connect youth with their motherlands.
Polyfest is important to Pasifika people because it’s where we can
find where our home is, without flying across the country, across the world.”
Myarles Teagai from Massey High School, who represented Tuvalu, said performers could be voices for their nations.
“We’re suffering with climate change so we’re here to tell our stories,” he said. “We’re here to express our culture and put Tuvalu on the map.”
Polyfest runs up until Saturday afternoon at the Manukau Sports Bowl. Next year’s event will be the 50th anniversary of Polyfest.
Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj
