By Matt Manukuo, PMN
Tokiofa Arts Academy is helping young Niueans to connect with their customs. Photo: Three Star Nation
"I know for myself, as a New Zealand-born Niuean, the easiest way to learn the Vagahau is through arts."
That is the sentiment of Tokiofa Arts Academy director Mone Lakatani, who is encouraging performing arts as a way to connect with Niue culture.
"It's been something they've (the youth) have always wanted to do. We've got children that start from 2 (years old) right up until 70 years old.
"It shows there is a need and a hunger for something like this."
The academy is an extension of a Niuean Youth Group based in Auckland, Three Star Nation, which represents Hakupu village.
The Tokiofa Arts Academy during a practice. Photo: PMN News/Candice Ama
Lakatani says the academy has been an opportunity for youth from different villages to embrace their Niue culture.
"Tokiofa stems off the Three Star Nation and the Hakupu Trust Board - it is our responsibility to share our culture with not just our village but all of Niue.
"We have a lot of students from different villages, different places around Auckland, some that are part Niuean (or) half Niuean.
"It's our service toward sharing our culture with everybody."
The group has been practising over the last few weeks in preparation for their performance next week.
Nofolisi Hala says the group is an important part of helping students stay connected to their culture outside of school.
"I've done this (performing Niue song and dance) a few times, especially in high school, (but) for me I took a bit of a gap coming out of high school.
"It's my first time getting back into it and I've missed it."
Mt Albert Grammar School student Brianna McCready says performing with the group has strengthened her pride as a Niuean.
"For me, it's really special, just today I was telling my mum 'I'm so happy I joined Tokiofa.
"It's given me so much joy and happiness coming every Tuesday and Thursday. Being around all these Niuean people, because our Niuean people are small, I love being around all these Niueans.
"I love being around this beautiful and bright culture."
-This article was first published by PMN.