This event takes place at the Hihiaua Peninsula Park in Whangarei or 197 Reyburn House A group of local Pasifika people got together in late 2014 in Whangarei to plan an event where they could showcase the Pacific Island and Maori cultures through performing arts, crafts and food. The inaugural festival held on Sat, 21 March 2015 was the result with about 5000 people attending. The many Pacific Island community groups living in Northland shared their culture, their music, food and colourful costumes on that day. Their communities were also strengthened with regular meetings, practising of items and imbedding of their cultural values into their youth. Our over-arching goal is to enhance the cultural diversity of Northland for the social and economic benefits of the Pacific Islands communities throughout Northland. Flow-on benefits include the fostering of cultural awareness, attracting more visitors and tourists to Whangarei through the hosting of an annual Pasifika festivals and other complementary events. This event is growing considerably, with an attendance of 10,000 in 2017 and more to the associated events, the Pasifika Arts Exhibition and gigs at supporting venues. Ultimately it is our desire to encourage all cultures in Whangarei and Northland to learn and appreciate each other’s culture through the hosting of a collaborative event. This event is organised by Fale Pasifika, also known as the Northland Pacific Islands Charitable Trust, based in Whangarei. In the past, we have received sponsorship from Foundation North, Whangarei District Council, Creative Communities, Creative NZ, Southern Trust and Oxford Trust. If you or your organisation is interested in supporting this event, please contact us.
