The annual Samoan student celebration So'otaga is back in Christchurch for the first time since the earthquakes and is set to be the biggest yet.
Canterbury University Samoan Students' Association perform at So'otago in 2014. Photo: Supplied: CUSSA
So'otaga is now in its 35th year. It involves academic, cultural and sporting competitions between four universities.
This year the University of Canterbury will host over 200 students from Victoria, Auckland and Waikato Universities.
University of Canterbury Samoan Students' Association president Tumama Tu'ulua said the event was life changing for students, as they were able to experience their Samoan heritage and culture on a large scale.
"I think a lot of students this year were attracted by the opportunity to visit the South Island and see what Christchurch has to offer."
He said Canterbury University had not held So'otaga since the earthquakes and it would be great to feel so involved again.
"Auckland has a big Pacific population and major events like Polyfest, but for many Samoan students from Christchurch this is their first opportunity to perform at such a high level."
"It's about celebrating Samoan culture and encompassing what and who we are," Mr Tu'ulua said.