Source: Auckland Council
Auckland Council invites all Aucklanders to explore Pacific ties at the upcoming Auckland Heritage Festival, which runs from 28 September to 13 October, with the theme of Moana Oceania.
Returning for its 20th year, the two-week festival includes talks, walks, exhibitions, performances, and workshops right across Tāmaki Makaurau. It offers the opportunity to explore and commemorate the region’s Pacific history and heritage. This year marks important anniversaries such as the 50th anniversary of Niue self-government. It also recognises the historical impact of the dawn raids on Pacific communities 50 years ago.
“How we define heritage continues to evolve and change, as we learn more about the rich tapestry of our city”, says Councillor Julie Fairey, deputy chair of the Auckland Council Community Committee.
“The Auckland Heritage Festival aims to highlight how heritage influences the character and quality of Auckland’s places and landscapes from maunga (mountain) to moana (sea). This year’s theme, Moana Oceania, gives us all opportunities to better understand and celebrate the many ways Pacific cultures have enriched Tāmaki Makaurau and laid out the foundations we stand on today”.
Auckland Council Heritage Manager Noel Reardon says there will be something on offer for all to enjoy at this year’s festival and emphasises the importance of heritage for the region.
“Our heritage is incredibly valuable and it’s important to make an active effort to share stories and traditions with our rangatahi. Understanding our past not only paves the way for a better future, but also helps keep culture and traditions alive,” Mr Reardon says.
“We’re very excited to shine a light on our Pacific communities this year and look forward to the events that showcase our Pacific ties through history,”
“Auckland Council has now been running this annual festival for 20 years, and it’s always inspiring to see such dedicated event hosts and a positive turnout year-on-year. One of the many great things about the festival is the range of activities – it lends itself to a wide audience as there’s always something for everyone.”
“I encourage Aucklanders to consider an outing with friends and whānau, perhaps with tamariki over the school holidays, and explore all that the Auckland Heritage Festival has to offer.”
Visit Auckland Heritage Festival for the full programme of 130 free or low-cost events that will run between 28 September – 13 October 2024 throughout Tāmaki Makaurau.
Event highlights include:
Exploring the King of Tonga’s Trees at Atalanga
Learn about the unique history and value of some of Auckland’s finest trees in their historic settings on The Tree Council’s guided walking tour of Atalanga, the King of Tonga’s Auckland Residence in Epsom.
Tongan Indigenous Knowledge Showcase
Our elderly Tongans possess a wealth of Tongan indigenous knowledge, and Fe’unukoula – Academy of Tongan Arts, Dance and Culture – would like to honour the uniqueness of these skills and knowledge in the Heritage Festival. Fe’unukoula Director Losalia Pusiaki Fifita leads a showcase explaining different types of attire worn by Tongan people. Visit our Tongan village and join in to learn about the skills of making table mats, wall hangings, laundry baskets, beautiful and colourful leis, the art of mat weaving and sinnet braiding, Tongan dancing and lots more.
Guided Pasifika Heritage Walk of Ponsonby
Take a stroll with charismatic Samoan street historian Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua along Ponsonby Road and discover the Pacific urban history and stories of Ponsonby. Hear about Pacific urban migration, dawn raids on overstayers, the Springbok Tour protest, the Polynesian Panthers, and much more.
Tuia Mātauranga: The Ocean That Binds Us Together
Uncover the rich voyaging traditions and cultures of Moana Oceania – the Pacific Ocean.
Embark on a journey with storytellers Sonny Natanielu and Tony Marsters as they take you through the extraordinary achievements of the Pacific voyagers, highlighting their mātauranga, innovation and navigation prowess across the vast Pacific Ocean.
Immerse yourself in the Tuia exhibition, delving into the tapestry of our migration history and settlement, prompting reflection on Aotearoa today and our collective aspirations for the future.
Fakafetuiaga
Reminisce and celebrate our beautiful Niue! Niue celebrates its 50th anniversary of self-governing, highlighting its relationship with Aotearoa. The island is commonly referred to as ‘The Rock’ of Polynesia, and it was European sailor Captain Cook who coined the famous phrase ‘Savage Islands’.
Through historical imagery, we explore the timeless stories of Niue, the memories and identity that grounds our Niuean communities here in Aotearoa and abroad.
Sustainable Conservation of Pacific Art and Heritage
The team at Studio Izzo talk about their experiences working with Pacific artists on their artworks and more. As part of its everyday activities, Studio Izzo receives many items including those from public art galleries and communities. The talk explores some of these items, their meanings, and sustainable conservation methods for Pacific treasures. You are welcome to bring your own objects to discuss – the team is keen for questions about your treasures!
