Pasifika festival a day for all

Pasifika festival a day for all

This year’s Pasifika Day at the Levin Showgrounds last Saturday attracted at least 4000 visitors and more stalls than ever before, organisers from Fale Pasifika said.

The vibrant cultures, flavours and traditions of the Pacific were on full display. Held in the heart of Horowhenua, the festival was both a colourful and lively occasion that honoured the diverse islands of the Pacific, showcasing their unique cultural identities and celebrating the use of Pacific languages and traditions.

Fale Pasifika Horowhenua chair Angelina Mose Tuialii said she was delighted at the overwhelming turnout.

“The crowd was happy, soaking up the friendly, family-oriented atmosphere, joining in with dancing and singing,” she said. “We could not have asked for a better day.

“Fa’afetai lava to everyone who came along to enjoy what Fale Pasifika Horowhenua and the district have to offer.”

Music and dance was on the main stage, with the headline act Ponifasio from Auckland with Lau and Muzz in support.

There was a Tongan village tent, and a Samoan village tent that showcased for the first time the art of traditional Samoan tattooing. Many organisations providing services to the Pacific community were there to explain what they did.

Mata of Piri’anga Alofa handed out fans promoting Pacific and community services offered by Practice Plus, while Andrew from the Pasifika Health team of Niuvaka Trust shared what services his team could provide.

Tohu Pōkairua Mātauranga Kōhungahunga (Pasifika) was recruiting for students and teachers to join its diploma in early childhood education or primary teacher education.

This year’s festival featured more than 60 food, arts, crafts, and promotional stalls – the highest number ever for the event. Pacific food vendors experienced unprecedented demand, selling out of traditional delights, including island donuts and other cultural specialties.

Cultural performances from Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga, and Samoa captivated the audience, providing an immersive experience into the rich heritage of the Pacific.

The festival also highlighted Pacific music, featuring DJ Six.One, emerging artists Kalo Block, with Levin’s own Ricky Fonoti and A.R.T., who recently toured alongside Josh Tatofi and have just launched their debut EP.

The headline act, Ponifasio, based in Auckland, was a major highlight of the event. With a powerful voice and commanding stage presence, he had the crowd singing along to his popular hits.

The success of Pasifika Celebration Day would not have been possible without the support of its funders and sponsors. The Horowhenua District Council Major Events Fund, ECCT, Aotearoa Gaming Trust, and Pelorus Trust provided crucial financial backing. Local businesses, including Tatana Contractors, Green By Nature, and JB’s Environmental, contributed valuable in-kind services, ensuring the smooth delivery of the event.

Pasifika Celebration Day continues to grow each year, strengthening community connections and celebrating the richness of Pacific cultures. The overwhelming success of this year’s event sets a strong foundation for even greater celebrations in the future.