Polyfest’s 50th anniversary is lighting up Auckland’s Manukau Sports Bowl with a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and students performances this week. Local Democracy Reporting went backstage at a Diversity stage. From Tokelauan and Hawaiian items to Kiribati and Cambodian showcases, here’s what some of the students and leaders had to say.
Tokelauan pride
Eden Enelio, cultural leader at McAuley High School, performed with her school’s Tokelau group.
“That experience — it was overwhelming, but really fun,” she said. “Tokelau is such a small island, and there’s a low percentage of us. Being able to share and express my culture with others who also want to learn is special.”
She said the group had been practicing hard and was proud of how it paid off.
“Polyfest means a lot, especially for people like me who don’t have that direct connection to our homeland,” she said.
Her favourite part? “The food is so good, guys! Definitely come to Polyfest and eat the kai.”
Aorere’s Fijian group debuts
Racheal Hewson and Katrina Singh from Aorere College performed with their school’s Fijian group for the first time at Polyfest.
“It’s my first time performing,” said Racheal. “Polyfest is amazing. It brings together so many cultures.”
Katrina said being part of the 50th anniversary was a proud moment.
“We’re all new to the country, and being able to perform and be part of this community means a lot.”
Her highlight? “Seeing all the cultures come together.”
Exploring Hawaiian culture
Jaeda Tuiono Daniel and Annruby Neufeldt from Manurewa High School were part of the Hawaiian performance.
“I was nervous,” said Jaeda. “I felt good,” added Annruby.
Neither were Hawaiian but both saw Polyfest as a chance to learn.
“It’s about representing and learning other people’s cultures,” said Annruby. “And trying all the different food!”
“I got persuaded by a teacher,” Jaeda laughed. “But I’m leaving for uni next year, so it was a good first-time experience.”
Annruby said she’d do it again.
Avondale College performs hula
Kali Mave (16) and Nevaeh Momoisea (17) were part of Avondale College’s Hawaiian group — its first time performing hula at Polyfest.
“For Avondale, it’s our first time doing hula,” said Kali.
Though not of Hawaiian heritage, both students say learning another culture was important.
“I think it’s really cool,” said Nevaeh. “As Pacific people, we’re one. Hawaii sometimes gets left out because they’re far away, so it felt special to share that culture.”
Her favourite part? “Embracing different cultures and being amongst the energy — the vibes.”
Kali agreed: “Performing and seeing everyone smile — that’s the best part.”
Kiribati group brings energy
The Manurewa High School Kiribati group brought pride to the stage.
“We’re representing the best Kiribati group in all of Polyfest — Manurewa!” shouted Cornelius.
Temweri Antares said it was about visibility.
“Kiribati is small, so this is a unique chance to show who we are,” she said. “Our costumes are handmade — our headpieces are made of straws and the rest from pandanus trees.”
Her favourite part?
“Seeing all the cultures and being able to perform.”
Cornelius added, “The food! Big thanks to everyone who makes it — it’s so nice. And [maybe] make the prices cheaper.”
Cambodian culture returns to Polyfest
Manurewa High School’s Cambodian and Chinese group returned to Polyfest after a long break. Teacher-in-charge Geraldi Ryan, of Indonesian descent, said it was the school’s first Cambodian performance since 2021.
“This is the first ever regeneration of 2025,” Ryan said. “It’s been a while.”
He said cultural inclusion was crucial.
“A lot of the students actually wanted to join to learn new cultures,” he said. “As Southeast Asians, it’s important we unite and showcase the beauty of our cultures.”
He said their group might be the only Cambodian group performing across all stages.
“They’re not just representing South Auckland Cambodians — they’re representing all of New Zealand. That’s special.”
His highlight? “Seeing the student-led performances. Everything the Cambodian group did — they managed it themselves. From February to now, they’ve run it all. It’s been phenomenal.”
After all the hard work and practices culminated in their on-stage performance, Ryan says there’s a sense of pride and closure.
“It’ll feel strange not seeing them every Wednesday, but all good things come to an end. There’s a real sense of fulfilment.”
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
