Auckland’s Pasifika Festival, one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations of Pacific Island cultures, returns to Western Springs this weekend.
The festival, in its 32nd year, will showcase the heartbeat of the Pacific through food, music, dance, and more.
Manukau ward councillor Alf Filipaina fondly recalls the festival’s early days and attending with his Samoan perspective.
“I remember when they started the Pasifika Festival at Western Springs, way back in the day, the first one,” he said.
“You look and see your Samoan side of who you are performing, with the songs they sing and the performances.”
Filipaina also emphasised the importance of experiencing other Pacific cultures. He points to Polyfest, another key event, as an example of celebrating cultural richness through its eight diverse villages.
“Watching our leaders of the future perform at Polyfest — it’s amazing. And it’s not just about your own culture, but about learning something from other people’s cultures too. That’s why I love it.”
The festival’s food is a major drawcard for the community, he says.
“People should definitely try the food. Honestly, I eat too much of it, especially the panikeke. Oh, the banana one — it’s shocking, but we love our food.”
The two-day celebration is a family-friendly event. Festivalgoers can expect to experience the richness of Pacific culture, language, and identity through more than 1000 performers from 11 Pacific countries — including Aotearoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, Hawai’i, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, and Tonga.
The event will feature live music, dance, arts and crafts, traditional food, and hands-on cultural experiences.
Performances include youth showcases such as Gafoa Le Ata from Kōwhai Intermediate, routines by The Royal Family Dance Crew, and soulful music by Samoan artist Vaniah Toloa.
Pacific drumming and choir performances will also fill the festival with powerful rhythms.
There will also be a Q&A with Miki Magasiva, director of film Tinā, and a performance by the rising R&B Fijian group LeftOvas LiveBand, who recently featured as the opening act for SIX60 after winning the Moana Music Open Mic Competition.
A range of interactive workshops and cultural experiences include Mophead Storytelling with Dr Selina Tusitala Marsh, traditional wood carving with Jim Stretton, and a live mural art collaboration with John Crouch and Jim To’o Stretton.
While Filipaina has made it known that his favourite is the banana panikeke, those attending Pasifika can indulge in a variety of authentic Pacific dishes including Tongan ‘ota ika, Fijian kokoda, and Niuean takihi. The festival will also feature island-style barbecues, traditional hangi and umu feasts.
Pasifika Vibes at MOTAT will offer ukulele lessons, children’s activities, and live cultural performances.
Plan ahead for travel
Public transport is recommended, with trains and buses running. Although some bus routes will be diverted due to road closures. Use the AT Mobile app or visit AT.govt.nz/journeyplanner to plan your trip. Bike racks are available at Gate A for secure bike parking.
Essentials for a comfortable day at Pasifika
An empty water bottle is recommended, as free refill stations will be available throughout the event. Sun protection is essential and comfortable shoes are advised. Reusable bags are useful for carrying arts, crafts, and any festival finds.
Do not bring
Leave alcohol, smoking, and vaping at home, as they are not permitted at the festival. Dogs are not allowed, except for service dogs, and commercial photography equipment should also be left at home.
Pasifika Festival runs from 9am to 6pm on Saturday, March 8, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday, March 9. For more details on the programme, site map and history, click here.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
