Aorere College team leaders at the Auckland Polyfest 2024.

ASB Polyfest 2024 once again illuminated South Auckland with a dazzling display of cultural diversity, youth empowerment, and the rich heritage of Pasifika cultures.

This vibrant celebration, now in its 49th year, served as a testament to the enduring spirit of indigenous pride and community cohesion.

Drawing participants from 69 schools across Aotearoa, Polyfest showcased over 200 teams, each representing a unique facet of Pacific and indigenous culture.

From the pulsating rhythms of Cook Islands drums to the graceful movements of Siva Samoa, the festival’s six stages reverberated with the energy and talent of young performers.

Since its inception in 1976, Polyfest has grown exponentially, evolving into one of the largest Pacific festivals in New Zealand.

What began as a modest gathering aimed at fostering cultural pride has blossomed into a monumental event, attracting up to 100,000 visitors annually.

At the heart of Polyfest is its commitment to inclusivity and representation. While five stages are dedicated to specific cultures, including Cook Islands, New Zealand Maori, Niue, Samoa, and Tonga, a sixth ‘diversity’ stage embraces students from a multitude of ethnic backgrounds, from Fijian to Korean.

For festival director Terri Leo-Mauu, Polyfest is more than just a showcase of talent—it’s a platform for youth to connect with their roots and celebrate their identities.

Participants like Allen Palemia and Abigail Ikiua, serving as youth leaders for their cultural teams, echo this sentiment, highlighting the festival’s role in fostering cultural pride and camaraderie.

As Polyfest looks towards its landmark 50th anniversary next year, anticipation is high for an even grander celebration.

With a generous funding boost from the government and expectations of surpassing pre-pandemic participant numbers, the future of Polyfest shines brighter than ever.

As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of cultural exchange, community engagement, and youth empowerment for generations to come.