Massey High School – Tuvalu group

A vibrant display of Pasifika pride and heritage is taking center stage at this year’s ASB Polyfest in Auckland. Held from March 20 to 23, the event serves as a vibrant celebration of Polynesian culture, drawing in young people from across Aotearoa to embrace their indigenous backgrounds.

With Tamaki Makaurau Auckland being a prominent hub of Pasifika communities in New Zealand, Polyfest offers a unique platform for youth to showcase their cultural identities.

Over 200 teams from 69 schools across the nation have gathered to represent their ethnic heritage in a colorful array of performances and displays.

Terri Leo-Mauu, the festival director, emphasized the significance of Polyfest in providing a pathway for individuals to connect with their cultural roots.

“It’s important for them to carry on the tradition, a rite of passage almost,” Leo-Mauu expressed.

“And it’s also important to them because they get to belong to something; they get to meet friends along the way and get to share this journey with other people.”

Participants echoed Leo-Mauu’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of Polyfest in fostering a deeper appreciation for their heritage.

Allen Palemia, youth leader for Aorere College’s Samoan team, remarked, “Polyfest is important because it is one of the ways we can express our culture and further connect and appreciate it.”

Tamalisi Langi, leader of the Tongan team at Aorere College, emphasized the festival’s role in connecting Pasifika youth with their ancestral homelands.

“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,” Langi explained.

For Myarles Teagai from Massey High School, representing Tuvalu at Polyfest is an opportunity to raise awareness about pressing issues facing his nation.

“We’re suffering with climate change so we’re here to tell our stories,” Teagai stated. “We’re here to express our culture and put Tuvalu on the map.”

As Polyfest continues to captivate audiences at the Manukau Sports Bowl until Saturday afternoon, anticipation is already building for next year’s event, which will mark its 50th anniversary.

Amidst the vibrant performances and cultural showcases, Polyfest stands as a testament to the enduring pride and unity of Pasifika culture in New Zealand.