666 days ago

How good was Polyfest 2023?

Sapeer Mayron Reporter from Auckland Stuff

After four years of disruption, high schoolers all over Auckland finally got the Polyfest they had been waiting for.

It was estimated about 60,000 people attended Polyfest last week, where 8000 students from 181 cultural groups representing 55 schools performed traditional speech, song and dance.

It’s the first time in several years that the festival has gone ahead without a hitch, following cancellations due to the Christchurch terror attacks in 2019 and the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

For most, it’s not about the win, but the chance to celebrate their culture and embrace their Pasifika heritage.

Manurewa High School’s Sarai Makara-Moreland, 16, was completely out of breath as she stepped off the Cook Islands stage following their high-energy performance.

She said it was a “real privilege” and “a blessing” to get on stage tell the audience: “Hey look, this is my culture. This is where I’m from.”

“The most important thing was we made it up there, and we performed as a team. We are going out, win or lose, as a team.”

Read more of our coverage at Stuff.co.nz, and tell us below - did you watch or compete at Polyfest? How did it go?

More messages from your neighbours
41 minutes ago

🌞 Summer is Here at Sandringham Red Cross! 🌞

Redcross Sandringham from Red Cross Shop Sandringham

Get ready for a season of fun, sports, and relaxation with our amazing finds! Whether you're heading to the beach, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing in the sun, we’ve got you covered.

🏖️ Stylish summer wear
🎾 Sports gear and accessories
📚 Books and games for lazy afternoons
🕶️ Unique finds for that perfect summer vibe

Shop sustainably and support the Red Cross cause. Pop in today and discover treasures perfect for your summer adventures!

📍 571 Sandringham Road, Sandringham,Auckland 1025
⏰ Open every day 10am

10 days ago

What word sums up 2024, neighbours?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

If 2020 was the year of lockdowns, banana bread, and WFH (work from home)....

In one word, how would you define 2024?

We're excited to see what you come up with!

Image
20 days ago

Poll: Would you rather: Christmas in summer forever or winter forever?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Just a bit of a fun poll to get you thinking.

If you had to live out your Christmas days, would you prefer it was a summer Christmas or a winter Christmas?

Image
Would you rather: Christmas in summer forever or winter forever?
  • 63.1% Summer
    63.1% Complete
  • 35.5% Winter
    35.5% Complete
  • 1.4% Other - I'll share below
    1.4% Complete
2572 votes