Hualālai Chung
Actor
Kanaka Maoli

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Hawaiian actor Hualālai Chung is the voice of Moni, a character that joins Moana on her journey in the franchise's sequel, 'Moana 2.' Born and raised on the island of Oʻahu, he carries with him the rich cultural heritage of his Polynesian roots, inspired by his upbringing in a family of performers and entertainers.

Hualālai shares his passion for storytelling, especially through film and music, and his desire to represent Pasifika cultures and share their stories with the world.

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Tell us a bit about yourself

I was born and raised on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaiʻi. My parents were both performers and avid entertainers in our local industry here, so I grew up throughout Waikīkī, running around all the different showrooms and entertainment venues. It was when I was a child that I knew I wanted to be a performer, specifically a Sāmoan fire knife dancer.

Fire knife dancing has been an immense passion of mine, eventually expanding my horizons into acting and music as I got older.…more

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Fiji's rugby sevens team emerged victorious at the Emirates Dubai 7s over the weekend, claiming the title for the first time in eight years.

This victory marks the end of a 22-tournament drought for Fiji, a significant achievement under the guidance of player-turned-coach Osea Kolinisau. The team showcased a remarkable performance, culminating in a decisive 19-5 victory against Spain in the men's final.

The match began with Spain taking an early lead, scoring 5 points in the first half. However, Fiji quickly retaliated, matching Spain's score just before heading into the second half, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown.

Kolinisau expressed his joy and relief after the match, stating, “It’s been a long time coming for the boys,” especially in light of the drama that has surrounded the Fiji Rugby scene in recent years. His leadership has been pivotal in bringing the team together, revitalizing the squad with a blend of new talent and experienced players.…more

🌺✨ Join us on the blue carpet for the highly anticipated premiere of Moana 2!  Te Reo🎥🌊

In this video, we chat with the cast, crew, and special guests about the magic behind bringing this Polynesian adventure to life. From behind-the-scenes stories to heartfelt moments of cultural pride, you won’t want to miss what the stars have to say.

Get ready to dive into the world of Moana once again as we celebrate its legacy, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music. 🌀🎶

🎤 Featuring interviews with:
🌟 The voices of Moana, Maui, and new characters
🌟 Directors and producers sharing what’s new this time around
🌟 Polynesian cultural consultants on how the film honors Pacific traditions

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Moana 2 content and your chance to relive the magic of the blue carpet! 💙✨ #Moana2 #BlueCarpet #PolynesianPride

In our vibrant tapestry of Fijian culture, few symbols resonate as deeply as the traditional hairdo known as the Buiniga. Proudly worn by both our iTaukei men and women it embodies not only a unique aesthetic but also a history that sets us iTaukeis apart from the rest of the world.

Growing up surrounded by family members adorned with the Buiniga—my mother, grandmother, aunties, and uncles—I have always felt a profound connection deeper than blood to my vuvale.

Straight silky hair was always the portrayed embodiment of beauty and I would be lying if I said I’ve never thought of conforming to society by taming my natural curls. A trip to the supermarket was always met with a list of hair products to rid myself of the rough texturised hair, that I thought for a long time was an embarrassment.

Little by little with every hair straightening product doused on my head it began to wash away the little cultural identity I shared with not only my family, but my people.…more

🌺 Actress and Moana 2 star Auli'i Cravalho sits down with Coco Correspondent and PEAK Pasifika founder Kristian Fanene Schmidt to reflect on her journey in Hollywood, the importance of Pacific Islander representation, and her exciting future ahead.

The two discuss everything from working with Dana Ledoux Miller and the Moana team to Auli'i's upcoming birthday celebration filled with the best Pasifika feeds!

Moana 2 coming to cinemas November 27 2024 🎬

by Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari

As Pasifika people, I know we have all had that talk. Should we support Maori or not? After attending the Toitu te tiriti hikoi on Wednesday, I believe we need to stand with our Maori family now, more than ever before.

As an Indigenous Samoan I believe, unless you came to New Zealand and added your own piece of land, we are on Maori land. The land of our cousins. As family, it is our duty as Tangata Moana to stand in  solidarity with our Maori family in their sovereignty fight.

When one is attacked, we are all attacked. As I saw several Pasifika at the hikoi, I was excited to hear their insights as well, interestingly my sentiments were shared. This is what some of them said.

“Attending the hikoi was important to me as a Tangata Moana and Tangata Tiriti, having migrated here from Tonga, because I understand how deeply sovereignty and connection to our land are woven into our identity.…more

I remember a famous Fijian folk song titled “Lei Tei Dalo Ko Tamaqu” that we would sing to distressed babies or use as a lullaby to put our kids to sleep.

Knowing little of the dark history the musical notes entailed, it was a tune that most Fijian kids sang their hearts out to. Like how storytelling, music and dance was a form of relaying our history to younger generations, this folk song carried the weight, tears and heartbreak of our ancestors.

A simple song, but broken down opens a new chapter of clarity.

The sad reality of this folk song describes the inhumane capture of our Pacific Islanders, leaving behind their island homes for a life of turmoil on new land.

Evelyn Koi, descendant of Reginald Koi who was brought to Fiji from The Solomon Islands in 1883 through Blackbirding, describes learning about Blackbirding in school without the knowledge that she was a descendant of one of those caught in the captivity.…more

A bold new exhibition, Kau Leka Mei Tahi, is on display at Four Shells Kava Lounge in Auckland, offering a raw, unapologetic glimpse into the world of Selekā, a Tongan art collective that has been pushing boundaries since its inception.

On display until 15th December, Kau Leka Mei Tahi features works by Selekā members and local Tongan youth, continuing the collective’s mission to redefine what it means to be Tongan and creative in a world that often marginalises both.

Kau Leka Mei Tahi: A Celebration of Tongan Youth and Creativity

The Kau Leka Mei Tahi exhibition, which translates to "Children from the Sea," is a testament to Selekā’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression among Tongan youth. The title of the exhibition reflects the collective’s deep connection to the ocean and the sea as a metaphor for growth, renewal, and self-discovery.

The works on display represent the diverse, dynamic nature of Tongan life, with each piece offering a glimpse into the personal journeys of the artists.…more

Big Island weekend of sport!

Fetu Samoa vs Fiji Bulikula 16 – 12

Fetu Samoa fought back to win a thrilling encounter at the Womens Pacific Bowl Final against Fiji Bulikula. The Fijians who looked the better of the two teams where ahead on the scoreboard for 67 minutes, before Fetu Samoa Captain Annetta-Claudia Nu'uausala crashed over for her second try to seal the win and a place for her Samoan team at the next Womens Rugby League World cup 2025 in England.

The Fijians go home heartbroken but can claim the Audience Choice Award for the tournament and should be in the running for the best tries scored. 

Fetu Samoa hopes are now that their fetu will shine brightly in the Rugby World Cup next year.

Mate Ma’a Tonga vs Kiwis 25 - 24

The showdown for a place in the final of the Pacific cup between  New Zealand and Tonga almost proved to be a fizzer if you were a kiwi supporter.…more