In pictures: Polyfest 2024

Auckland's Polyfest, a cultural festival celebrating Māori and Pacific Island nations is underway at the Manukau Sports Bowl.

The festival kicked off on Wednesday and will be continuing until Saturday.

More than 200 teams from 69 schools across Aotearoa were in attendance to represent their ethnic backgrounds.

Festival director Terri Leo-Mauu said Polyfest provides a pathway for people to connect with their cultural backgrounds.

"It's important for them to carry on the tradition, a rite of passage almost.

"And it's also important to them because they get to belong to something; they get to meet friends along the way and get to share this journey with other people."

Minsiter for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti said the government would continue to support Auckland's Polyfest by giving it a $60,000 funding boost in 2025.

Reti said the government's sponsorship of the festival recognises the value and role languages play in building confidence for Pacific youth.

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the festival. An additonal $60,0000 funding boost will also be given to the festival in 2030 to mark its 55th year.

Manukau Ward councillor Alf Filipaina told Local Democracy Reporting people should get behind it and experience the wonderful atmosphere.

"It's amazing, it brings our communities together," Filipaina said.

RNZ has been at the festival, capturing the best of what it has to offer.

Check out the photo gallery below: