Massey High School - Tuvalu group Photo: Tiana Haxton
Young Pasifika people are demonstrating pride and passion for their cultural heritage at this week's ASB Polyfest.
Tamaki Makaurau Auckland is the biggest hub of Pasifika people in Aotearoa, and Polyfest, which runs from March 20 - 23, provides a unique opportunity for Polynesian youth to embrace these indigenous backgrounds.
Over 200 teams from 69 schools across Aotearoa were in attendance to represent their ethnic backgrounds.
Celebration of cultural identity and diversity at Polyfest
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.
Polyfest Auckland 2024 Photo: Tiana Haxton
"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."
The youth agreed - Allen Palemia, the youth leader for Aorere College's Samoan team, said participants develop a deeper appreciation for their heritage.
"Polyfest is important because it is one of the ways we can express our culture and further connect and appreciate it." he said.
Palemia's classmate, Tamalisi Langi, echoed his sentiments.
As the leader of the Tongan team he said the festival helps connect youth with their motherlands.
Polyfest Auckland 2024 Photo: Tiana Haxton
"Polyfest is important to Pasifika people because it's where we can find where our home is, without flying across the country, across the world."
Myarles Teagai from Massey High School, who represented Tuvalu, said performers could be voices for their nations.
"We're suffering with climate change so we're here to tell our stories," he said.
"We're here to express our culture and put Tuvalu on the map."
Polyfest runs up until Saturday afternoon at the Manukau Sports Bowl. Next year's event will be the 50th anniversary of Polyfest.