Coco Talanoa — Pacific Blog / Page 1

By Leki Jackson-Bourke

The buzz is still high and the town’s still talking after the annual ASB Polyfest which was held in Tāmaki Makaurau, March 2024.

The popular festival began in 1976 and is considered the largest Pacific Dance Festival in the world. This year saw an increase in the rise of contemporary inspired performances which left plenty to talk about on social media. “That’s not traditional… they should’ve placed… that school shouldn't have won.. it’s rigged."

Every year it’s the same old argument over traditional vs contemporary. Some are here for it, some are against it. We interviewed a few tutors who were subject to online criticism and we posed the question - Is there a place for cultural Innovation at Polyfest?

MANUREWA HIGH SCHOOL TONGAN GROUP

Traditionally, Tongan dance is taught by a Punake who is known as the cultural expert and lead knowledge holder of Tongan arts. To be bestowed the title of a Punake is a huge honour and one that few families can truly claim.…more

It's with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Tofilau Yolande Ah Chong, the woman who brought such life and love to our Pasifika communities, who advocated passionately for the voice of Tagata Moana and lit up our screens with her special brand of humour like no other 🌺💞

We love you so much Lande, look at the decades of joy you brought to the world in all our programmes and events.

Rest in Alofa and fly high in the Heavens like you did on Earth 🕊️ This is our special tribute compilation of all your amazing work

“In our Pasifika culture when you’re a young person and you voice to your family that you want to be an artist, there’s often this suspicion, fear or worry about making an impact or even a career from being an artist. It takes a lot of having to bury those dreams and expectations that others have for your life and push past that to look deep within and ask “what do I want for my life?”

She is the Samoan supernova of the Australian art world, splashing narratives of brown women up front and personal across giant sized screens in some of the most acclaimed art spaces across the ditch.

The proud Savaiian has been on an extraordinary journey with her video making art practice, and has also had extraordinary success in the palagi art world.

Angela’s latest work ‘Dark Current’ continues to pack a punch, putting forward subversive ideas behind the beauty of the Island experience.…more

By Jane Vavaitamana Gerard

In 1876, two years after Fiji was ceded to Great Britain, a council was established for the sole purpose of being an advisory body to British Colonial rulers; this was named Bose Levu Vakaturaga or the Great Council of Chiefs as it is more widely known today. 

89 years of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga being a male dominated Council, history was made when a woman chief was allowed to become a member of the Council for the first time. Adi Maraia Pickering Mataitini daughter of the Vunivalu of Rewa was elected by the Soqosoqo Vakamarama at the age of 43, to be an integral voice for our Fijian women amongst great men that led in their respective corners of the country.…more

Embracing International Women's Day with heartfelt tributes to women who shaped us. 

From the Tongan Muse, to the banaban Warrior, the Samoan Guardian Angel and the hardowrking mama who is both mum and dad. Today we celebrate all Pasifika Women in our lives who have shaped our generation. 

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Janet - By Hele Christopher-Ikimotu

Growing up, my mum referred to me as her little handbag, in the sense that everywhere she went, I was by her side. As the baby of the family, I clung to her – she personified safety and shelter. Now an adult, I may not necessarily be by her side everywhere she goes, but more so a few steps ahead as she watches her baby boy grow and walk towards the success she prayed for. 

A woman of faith, a loving mother, grandmother and wife, she taught me how to carry myself with dignity, to stand firm in my identity and to put my trust in God.…more

Proud Father, Loving husband and South Auckland's staunchest advocate - the loss of Fa'anānā has been felt far and wide. Hundreds of tributes have poured in from those who knew him in life and are mourning the loss of one of our pillars in the Pasifika Communities. Here are some of the beautiful thoughts expressed by people from all different sectors of society, as we honour Fa’anānā’s legacy to us:

Mariner Fagaiava

Aigagalefili Fepulea'i-Tupua'i

Falaniko Tomoniko II - Samoan Educator

Fa'anānā Efeso Collins, you always made time for everyone. Everyone who knew you felt like you were their best friend in the world, myself included! The only thing bigger than your smile, your personality, your intelligence and your star was your love for Fia Collins and your girls, your family and your Pacific people. My love and prayers go out to all of you at this time.…more

In a move to preserve and share Pacific cultures with the younger generation, Pacific Kids' Learning (PKL) has introduced the Pacific Digital Library, a streaming platform dedicated to Pacific-inspired content for children.

The ad-free platform, accessible in nine Pacific languages and English, aims to bridge cultural knowledge gaps and revitalise endangered Pacific languages.

The Pacific Digital Library houses a large collection of cultural songs, dances, stories, and educational animations.

The platform's co-founder and Education Director, Theresa Tupuola-Sorenson, stresses the importance of preserving Pacific cultures in a rapidly changing world. With the launch of this platform, PKL strives to provide a cultural oasis for Pasifika families, allowing them to share traditions and stories with their children conveniently.

Theresa highlighted the platform's significance, stating, "By marrying technology with tradition, we can help bridge the cultural knowledge gap while creating entertaining and mana-enhancing content for our kids."

The platform features Pacific music and dance with motion-capture technology and animation.…more

In a nation filled with exceptional individuals, we proudly spotlight the outstanding Polynesian Finalists for the 2024 Ngā Tohu Pou Kōhure o Aotearoa, presented by the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards team. Selected from thousands of nominations, these remarkable individuals have been recognized for embodying the spirit and essence of being a New Zealander.

A huge Coco-Congrats to this year's Polynesian Finalists leading the way in our communities!

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Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year 2024 Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa

Sarai Bareman: Sarai Bareman (Samoan) is one of the most powerful figures in international football. In 2023, she delivered the Womens' World Cup in Aotearoa New Zealand, capturing the hearts and minds of a nation.

Kiri Nathan: Kiri Nathan (Māori) is an internationally renowned fashion designer. In 2023, she made history as the first Māori designer to open New Zealand Fashion Week since its inception.…more

Right in the middle of Auckland CBD, the beats of Pacific artists are set to echo through the city streets as the Auckland Pride March and Party returns for another spectacular year on 25th February, 2024!

A celebration of everything Queer, the event promises to be a powerful testament to reclamation, strength, and the sheer joy of the LGBTQIA+ community.

March to the Rhythm of Diversity:

The festivities kick off at 2 pm at Aotea Square, with formalities and fun activities commencing at 3 pm. The march, a symbol of Queer activism, begins at 3:30 pm, weaving its way through the city streets, a testament to the diversity and strength of the LGBTQIA+ community.

At the heart of the march are three incredible Pacific artists who will set the soundtrack for the day - Brown Boy Magik, Vercetti, and the headlining force, PATI AF.

Meet the Maestros:

Pati AF (formerly known as Disciple Pati)

Hailing from South Auckland, Pati AF has been a professional force in the music industry for the past two years.…more

The Manioro Festival is back in 2024 at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre. Last year, it drew over 1000 people, and this time, get ready for more exciting workshops, events, and panels.

"Manioro" means making noise or causing a disturbance, brought to Hastings by Nevertheless, a non-profit organization focusing on Māori, Pasifika, and Takatāpui communities. Founded by Shaqaila Uelese and Maia Wati-Cooper, the organization aims to create a safe space for education, not just for Māori and Pasifika Rainbow+ communities but also for their whanau and communities.

Kicking off the festival is the Tūrama exhibition, a meaningful project in suicide prevention, showcasing 24 powerful stories of resilience from takatāpui/rainbow+ individuals. Explore other cool activities like relaxed workplace sessions, a cozy evening of storytelling, and hands-on creative workshops – from tapa cloth making to kapa haka and ei katu crafting.

Closing the festivities is a fiafia night, featuring talents from Pacific and Māori rainbow+ cultural and contemporary arts groups. End the night with an awesome after-function, enjoying a live performance by White Chapel Jak.…more