The 33rd Pasifika Festival concluded today at Auckland’s Western Springs Park, drawing large crowds to celebrate Pacific Island cultures.
The annual event featured cultural performances, workshops, music, and food from 11 island nations. Eight stages across four zones united festivalgoers, performers, and stallholders.
Tongan culture was prominently showcased. Attendees wore traditional attire, and Tongan cuisine, including delicacies like ‘ota ‘ika (raw fish salad), was popular among visitors.
Festival Director Jep Savali emphasized the event’s role in uniting Pacific communities. He noted that the festival is “stitching together our communities through common practice which is sharing kai, cultural performances and being able to springboard and bring the best of our communities to showcase.”
As the festival concluded, attendees expressed anticipation for next year’s celebration, reflecting on the vibrant display of Pacific cultures and the unity fostered among diverse communities.
