Kia Ora (NZ Maori)
Kia Orana (Cook Islands Maori)
Ia Orana (Tahiti)
Fakaalofa lahi atu (Niue)
Malo e lelei (Tonga)
Talofa lava (Samoa)
Talofa (Tuvalu)
Taloha ni (Tokelau)
Aloha mai e (Hawaii)
Halo olaketa (Solomons)
Bula vinaka (Fiji)
Namaste/kaise (Indo-Fijian)
Kam na mauri (Kiribati)
Alii (Palau)Ekamwir-omo (Nauru)
April 17th 2018
ARTS
Pasifika art exhibitions across Auckland
There are some awesome Pasifika arts exhibitions coming up across the Auckland region to check out: WANTOK curated by Luisa Tora, Ko ‘eku ‘iai – My Existence by Visesio Poasi Siasau and Faux Patutiki by Numangatini Fraser Mackenzie
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April 13th 2018
EDUCATION
New Graduate Pathway for Maori and Pasifika Students
At the end of 2018, three tertiary students heading into their last year of study will join Fonterra for a twelve-week paid internship, where they will be exposed to different parts of the business and mentored by senior leaders.
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April 11th 2018
SPORT
She has a name: Feagaiga Stowers wins Gold for Samoa
Feagaiga Stowers joins a handful of other Pacific peers in winning medals for their respective countries, having securing Gold. LAUMATA LAUANO weighs in on why the reporting of Stowers' win being born only from Kiwi weightlifter Laurel Hubbard’s withdrawal is problematic.
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April 10th 2018
HEALTH
Empowering Pacific Youth to Lead Healthier Lives
Pacific health care provider The Fono is working on a project that is designed to empower Pacific communities towards better health and wellbeing, particularly with preventing prediabetes in young Pacific people.
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April 6th 2018
EDUCATION
Building a pipeline of jobs in Tamaki
The Tāmaki Jobs and Skills Hub has been running since late 2013. It helps job seekers get work ready by offering support with things like writing CVs, providing career advice, applying for jobs online, driver licence training, job matching, and mentoring for the first year of employment.
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April 6th 2018
Environment
New global mind-set needed to tackle climate change
Organisers of the Pacific Climate Change Conference 2018, held at Victoria University in Wellington, say a mind-set of a shared responsibility for the planet is essential to bring transformative change in the fight against global warming
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April 3rd 2018
EDUCATION
Ivan - Towards a career in carpentry
Samoan-Maori-Croatian Ivan Bakulich Tuita’ali’i decided conventional school wasn’t for him anymore and after an uncle’s suggestion he’s on his way towards an apprenticeship and a career in carpentry thanks to OCA.
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March 28 2018
Environment
Samoan reusable hygiene solution wins at the UN
Angelica Salele-Sefo was one of twelve environmental startups awarded for the Asia Pacific Low Carbon Lifestyles Challenge. Her idea to produce reusable cotton feminine hygiene products won her $10,000 seed money to help make it a reality in the Pacific.
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March 22nd 2018
EDUCATION
Skills - Celebrating exceptional Pasifika apprentices
Five standout Pasifika men have been acknowledged by their employers and training organisation for their commitment to trade apprenticeships, receiving the Skills Pasifika Specialist Trades Scholarships which include a financial grants of $2000 to be allocated to training fees or tools.
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March 15th 2018
ENTERTAINMENT
Parris Young Queen - Out Now
In her new memoir, Young Queen Parris Goebel talks about life, family, her successful career and her Polynesian pride. The book is out now and we’re lucky enough to have some extracts in the upcoming issue of SPASIFIK, issue 71.
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March 14th 2018
COMMUNITY
Embracing her culture
Jane Malauulu feels immensely proud to see other people embrace her Samoan culture at ASB Polyfest. The year 13 Mangere College student and Samoan Group leader says “It’s important to embrace your own culture because it’s part of who you are.”
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March 13th 2018
ARTS
Still Life With Chickens - Review
Under the direction of Samoan director Fasitua Amosa, along with the talents of Goretti Chadwick and Haanz Fa’avae-Jackson, D.F. Mamea's play takes the audience into the little-explored world of our strong Pacific parents after we’ve flown the coop.
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March 13th 2018
COMMUNITY
Foundations of love, respect and patience
Levi says through his biological parents in Samoa to his adopted parents in New Zealand, the importance of alofa (love) and fa’aaloalo (respect) are integral to building strong foundations within his family.
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March 13th 2018
COMMUNITY
Pacific Mothers: Niue and Fiji Migration Stories
Pasefika Proud launched a second series of Migration and Legacy stories featuring our Pacific mothers, as a follow up to their series of stories from our Pacific fathers. Watch the first two videos below of strong Pacific mothers who migrated from Fiji and Niue.
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March 7th 2018
COMMUNITY
Largest annual Pacific youth festival in the world kicks off in a week
The largest Pacific youth festival of its kind now in its 43rd year will see more than 10,000 secondary school students from across the Auckland region perform traditional song, dance and speech
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March 6th 2018
BUSINESS
To be recognised by her Pacific business peers
As co-owner of LOT EIGHT, the Fijian-born businesswoman describes the emotion she felt taking the stage in front of her Pacific business peers, as a ‘feeling of homecoming’. Nalini reflects on the positive effect winning a PBT Award has had not just for LOT EIGHT but for herself as a Pacific woman in business.
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February 15th 2018
COMMUNITY
Helping Families (Kāinga) “Prosper"
Translated to mean Prosperous Families, Kāinga Tu’umalie helps to prevent and restore families from violence by providing a safe space for them to strengthen relationships and identify key issues within their family unit to work on.
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February 14 2018
Environment
Cylone Gita: destruction in the Pacific
Cyclone Gita has been upgraded to a category 5, the highest possible, Fiji's Meteorological service says, as it moves away from the islands of southern Fiji. So far the cyclone has left Samoa and American Samoa with a massive cleanup, Tonga in destruction, Fiji’s southern islands cut off. RNZ has the latest
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February 9th 2018
ARTS
Cast announced for new play by acclaimed Maori playwright Hone Kouka
An award-winning actor, a member of Fly My Pretties, a Shortland St star, an international Pop-Up Globe performer and a high school graduate making her theatre debut are among the cast just announced for Hone Kouka’s stunning new work, Bless the Child.
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February 2nd 2018
COMMUNITY
Rise and Shine: Brothers Bond
In the next Rise and Shine disability story, brothers Leatuao Larry Tupa'i-Lavea, and Adeaze duo Feagaigafou (known as Nainz) and Logovi’i (Viiz) Tupa’i remember their mum Selepa Malaefono Feterika Tupa'i, a strong Pacific woman who lived with a disability, fondly.
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January 31st 2018
EDUCATION
Pacific Youth Awards: Excellence and Outstanding Achievement
The Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards are still open for 2018 applicants and won’t close until February 6th. The awards recognise excellence and outstanding achievement by Pacific youth in New Zealand.
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January 22nd 2018
ART
The Art of Graham Fletcher
The Third Space: the Art of Graham Fletcher looks at the twenty-year work of this contemporary New Zealand artist, demonstrating how he harnesses the ambiguous to bring together Pacific culture and European art history in a cultural limbo.
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December 21st 2017
HEALTH
Auckland Dengue Fever spike - ARPHS issue health warning for Pacific-bound travellers
With a spike in the number of dengue fever cases in Auckland, Auckland Regional Public Health Service has issued a warning for those travelling to the Pacific Islands to protect themselves against mosquitos.
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December 19th 2017
COMMUNITY
Brothers Adeaze into their role
As the eldest brother to Feagaigafou (known as Nainz) and Logovi’i (Viiz) Tupa’i from the multi-award-winning duo Adeaze, Leatuao Larry Tupa'i-Lavea has distant memories of growing up in Samoa with his mum Selepa Malaefono Feterika Tupa'i.
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December 19th 2017
BUSINESS
The Way to SimplyFi
The Busby family are developing an innovative cataloguing application called SimplyFi, the app will streamline the lending and borrowing process between institutions and the global culture and heritage sector, aiding the collection and dissemination of possible hidden stories.
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December 18th 2017
BUSINESS
Innovative programme launched to help young Pacific entrepreneurs Hatch
The Hatch Youth Programme officially launched on Friday 15 December at Lei Café, Ponsonby. Developed and delivered by PBT in partnership with Massey University, Hatch provides a combination of flexible tertiary education with real-world experience.
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December 15th 2017
COMMUNITY
Rise & Shine Disability Series: Mathew's Mission
Mathew (Matt) Ngametua is a Cook Islander with mild Cerebral Palsy hemiplegia and diplegia. Matt is proud to be living an independent life and credits his mum with teaching him to live independently.
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December 8th 2017
COMMUNITY NOTICE
The Kitchen Project heats up for Pacific foodies
Emerging Pacific food entrepreneurs in west Auckland can now apply for The Kitchen Project, a local initiative that offers affordable kitchen space for product development as well as a mentoring programme.
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December 8th 2017
BUSINESS
Six young Pacific business teams to Hatch
The Pacific Business Trust launched Hatch and announced the six teams chosen to participate, they will meet for the first time at the official launch on Friday 15 December at a special event at Lei Cafe in Ponsonby
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December 7th 2017
COMMUNITY
Luhama Rises, Shines and Inspires
The first from Pasefika Proud's newly launched Rise & Shine Disability Series, Luhama Niu is a Tongan with Cerebral Palsy who works part-time at Z New Zealand at Tom Pearce Drive at Auckland Airport. Watch her story
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December 6th 2017
COMMUNITY
Rise & Shine a light on disability and family violence
A new series of Rise and Shine Pacific Disability Resources raises awareness of disabled people and family violence to challenge some Pacific community attitudes towards the disabled community and address the stigma that sometimes leads to the physical and emotional abuse of disabled Pacific people.
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December 5th 2017
HEALTH
Le Va: Inspirational Careers in Public Health
Pacific NGO LeVa is promoting Pacific Mental Health and Addictions Scholarships and Pasifika Health Workforce Grants to encourage students into, and grow the size and skills of those already in, the Pasifika health workforce.
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November 30th 2017
SPORT
Tongan Darlings of the RLWC 2017
As the Tongan league team are welcomed home in the Kingdom to be invested with an award of the Royal Orders by King Tupou VI, there’s no denying that Tonga came to the World Cup and conquered, even if they didn’t walk away with the cup. MATA LAUANO reflects on the team's highs and lows
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November 29th 2017
EDUCATION
Former Minister Embraces new Role
The 2017 General Election saw Peseta Sam Lotu Iiga leave more than a decade of local and national politics for a new career as Deputy CEO for the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), which officially welcomed him in September
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November 23rd 2017
ENTERTAINMENT
The Naked Samoans Reunite to Do Magic
Performing for the first time in 12 years, The Naked Samoans - Dave Fane, Mario Gaoa, Shimpal Lelisi, Oscar Kightley, Robbie Magasiva and Heto Ah hi - are the headline local comedy/theatre act at the 2018 festival.
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November 17th 2017
EDUCATION
Schooling South Auckland
As the need for more Pacific teachers grow, and in direct response to teacher shortages in Auckland along with a demand from those wanting to study teaching in South Auckland AUT is moving their School of Education to South Auckland from February 2018.
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November 13th 2017
COMMUNITY
Priorities for Pasifika success
Three months into the job, Ministry for Pacific Peoples Chief Executive Officer Laulu Mac Leauanae is confident he is ready for the challenges ahead and looks forward to leading a Ministry that is focused on ensuring Pacific communities thrive. ANGIE ENOKA reports
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November 9th 2017
HEALTH
Diabetes Action Month: Know the difference and Join the MoveMeant
Diabetes NZ is teaming up with FitBit, Equal and Natural’s sweeteners and Sanofi to giveaway Join the MoveMeant packs valued at over $300. Read about the different types diabetes and find out how to enter.
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November 9th 2017
EDUCATION
Starting University the Nesian way: UniBound Summer
The UniBound programme gives Pacific and Maori students academic preparation in numeracy and literacy as well as a University 101 guide to getting a handle on studying at the University of Auckland.
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November 8th 2017
EXCLUSIVE
SPASIFIK teams up with Corrections
SPASIFIK donated 200 magazines to the Department of Corrections for nationwide distribution among the 19 facilities nationwide to encourage Pacific and Maori inmates to learn to read. And Publisher INNES LOGAN shares how reading led him to where he is today.
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November 6th 2017
SPORT
Tongan league team takes win and fans take to South Auckland streets
Despite a jovial stadium crowd following a fair game, where Samoans and Tongans supported their respective teams beautifully in Hamilton, there were 29 arrests in South Auckland as Tongan fans attacked each other.
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November 3rd 2017
COMMUNITY
Flags: Tongan and Samoan fans urged to keep the peace
Calls for calm amongst Toa Samoa and Mate Ma'a Tonga fans ahead of tomorrow's game in Hamilton and SPASIFIK publisher INNES LOGAN reflects on the implications of such violent fan-behaviour for our people
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October 31st 2017
SPORT
RLWC2017: How the Pacific are faring
As Mate Ma'a Tonga fans flood the streets of Otahuhu and the arrival gates of the Auckland International Airport, let’s look at how the Rugby League World Cup #RLWC2017 tournament is going so far, and where our #Pacific teams are placed.
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October 27th 2017
NEWS
Maori and Pasifika Ministers sworn into NZ Government
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was sworn in on October 26 with her diverse line-up of ministers, including 13 Maori and Pacific ministers, to govern New Zealand for the next three years
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October 20th 2017
EDUCATION
Niue Language in crisis says one academic
Niueans are celebrating their language, culture and heritage this week in New Zealand as part of the Pacific Language weeks however one academic says the language is at crisis levels with New Zealand-born Niueans not speaking the language, RNZ reports
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October 10th 2017
EDUCATION
Careerforce - Earning while learning
McKenzie Tuala-Pine is a youth coach with Reconnect Family Services who is studying Careerforce’s New Zealand Certificate in Youth Work. Read how she gets to inspire young people to build positive futures and be the best mum she can be for her daughter Layla at the same time.
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October 6th 2017
SPORT
The National Sport of Tuvalu - Te Ano
With the help of our friends at Te Papa and Tagata Pasifika let’s look at how to play Te Ano, the national game of Tuvalu. A bit like volleyball Te Ano is played with a harder, tougher, ball that could blacken your eye if you’re not careful.
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October 6th 2017
EDUCATION
The Contemporary Tongan Drum getting International Props
Massey University graduate Rachael Hall who was inspired by her Pacific heritage, has won international acclaim for the unique musical instrument she designed and handcrafted herself based on the traditional Tongan lali.
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October 4th 2017
COMMUNITY
Not a Nobody
Despite lacking definitive stats around family violence within the community, Manuila Tausi knows it’s most certainly an issue. It's why he helped write Pasefika Proud’s Tuvalu Conceptual Framework to address family violence in New Zealand and facilitated the Tuvalu family violence training session- where we met a Tuvaluan who overcame family violence to help others today.
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September 29th 2017
POLITICS
PACIFICA Inc President Congratulates Pacific MPs
Bernadette Pereira, National President of PACIFICA Inc was one of the first to congratulate new Labour List MP Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki for her success in the NZ Elections last Saturday as NZ await a new government.
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September 28th 2017
COMMUNITY
What is a Pacific man?
In this video by Pasefika Proud featuring Pacific men Church ministers, community leaders and violence prevention advocates share their personal stories of family violence and ask a fundamental question – what does it mean to be a Pacific man?
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September 22th 2017
HEALTH
Maori-led research supports empowering positive smokefree approach for iwi
Research conducted by Whakauae Research for Māori Health and Development (Whanganui) highlights Māori public health workers and advocates attitudes towards Smokefree Outdoor Policies
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September 20th 2017
BUSINESS
Pacific coffee and chocolate on show in Auckland this week
Coffee and chocolate products from five Pacific Island countries will be showcased at the fourth Chocolate & Coffee Show on Auckland’s waterfront this weeken September 23-24. The show features all things related to chocolate and coffee.
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September 15th 2017
BUSINESS
Hatching Pacific Youth Entrepreneurs
The Hatch Youth Programme for Pacific youth with entrepreneurial aspirations launched today. The partnership between the Pacific Business Trust and Massey University aims to provide a combination of flexible tertiary education with real-world experience for youth aged 16-26.
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September 11th 2017
HEALTH
Pacific Voice at Nuka System of Care Conference in Alaska
Among a delegation of Pacific health providers attending, The Fono CEO Tevita Funaki presented his findings on a health system that focuses on holistic wellness built via a relationship-based model.
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Sepmtember 7th 2017
HEALTH
Study shows mould in bedrooms causes asthma in young children
A new study shows that mould in bedrooms causes asthma in young children, vital info for our people as rates of hospitalisation for asthma are more than three times higher for Māori and Pacific children than other ethnicities
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September 6th 2017
ART
LIT artworks by Pacific artists to illuminate Beresford Lane this October
Eight Pasifika artists will provide images for 2mx1m lightboxes that will stand like beacons in Beresford Lane during the first week of October. These artists are Asinate Moa, Siliga David Setoga, Shane Tuihalangingie, Edith Amituanai, Chris Charteris, Raymond Sagapolutele, Salome Tanuvasa and Matavai Taulangau.
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September 5th 2017
Environment
Waka fleet to descend on Wellington Harbour for 2018 NZ Festival
A mass assembly of waka hourua (twin-hulled ocean-going waka) from around the Pacific and Aotearoa will descend on Wellington Harbour at dusk on 23 February, opening New Zealand’s largest international arts Festival
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September 4th 2017
BUSINESS
TideTalking from Mahuki
CEO Lillian Arp and Koni Rairoa are building TideTalk, a language preservation tool for Pacific Immigrants who want to preserve their culture. Hear about their experience at Mahuki the Innovation Hub of Tepapa with the help of the Pacific Business Trust.
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September 1st 2017
ENTERTAINMENT
Contestants for Miss Samoa - which includes New Zealander Natalie - vie for online vote
Miss Samoa online voting kicked off this week at the start of the most celebrated annual event in Samoa, the Teuila Festival. Samoan girls from around the Pacific will compete for the title of Miss Samoa, including New Zealand’s very own Natalie Leitulagi Toevai
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September 1st 2017
COMMUNITY
Tongan Language Week 2017
Mālō e lelei! Tongan Language Week begins next week from 3-9 September. This year’s theme is ‘Fakakoloa Aotearoa ‘Aki ‘Ae Nofo 'A Kainga’ — Enriching Aotearoa with our Family Values. See how, when and where to celebrate
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August 31st 2017
HEALTH
1mil to help Pacific communities tackle growing prediabetes epidemic
A new study will help empower Pacific communities to tackle the alarmingly high rate of prediabetes in Pacific youth and adults as part of a government push to improve the management of long-term health conditions in New Zealand.
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August 30th 2017
CAREERS
Samoan man awarded at Diversity Awards 2017 for Walking the Talk
Diversity Awards NZ recognises and celebrates NZ businesses and organisations championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This year the Walk the Talk Award went to Samoan man Fatu Patolo
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August 28th 2017
SPORT
Black Ferns claim fifth world cup title- watch the match highlights
In a thrilling Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017 final the Black Ferns triumphed over England 41-32 at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast to claim their fifth world cup title - watch the highlights below!
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August 28th 2017
POLITICS - OPINION
Who's got your vote for a kaupapa Maori voice in Parliament?
Freelance writer and communications specialist HELENA BETHUNE talks to Labour party deputy leader Kelvin Davis on the campaign trail, still buzzing from Labour’s rapid success, and provides some insight for Māori and profiles political leaders and candidates who want the Maori vote.
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August 25th 2017
NEWS
Tautai: NZ Launch of first ever biography on Samoan Freedom Fighter
Tautai: Sāmoa, World History, and the Life of Ta’isi O. F. Nelson, the first ever biography on the leader of the Mau, Ta’isi Olaf Frederick Nelson was launched at Malaeola on August 24
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August 22nd 2017
HEALTH
Vaavaaitu and her renewed smile
In this dental case study Auckland-based healthcare provider The Fono share the story of dental patient Vaavaaitu, who shed a tear of joy at the results after accessing treatment with Dr Mowafaq Amso for a cavity-free smile.
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August 18th 2017
COMMUNITY
Pacific Homecare client Faivalu reclaims her birth name
Pacific Homecare client Faivalu Aiolupotea was known by her sister’s name ‘Pepe’ and it wasn’t until she reached the pension age that she took steps to reclaim her birth name. We share her story
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August 11th 2017
OPINION
Benefit Kids and the Metiria Effect
Reporter LAUMATA LAUANO looks at Metiria Turei’s situation and wonders, as a former benefit kid herself, how a nation that operates under a representative democracy is running low on leaders who represent more than just the upper-middle class.
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August 8th 2017
HEALTH
Mai e Nima to bring eight-year-old ambassadors to NZ for Tongan Language Week
In a show of support for Tongan Language Week, Chris and Charlize will visit pre-schools and primary schools to teach children Tongan words for fruit and vegetables – as well as share their Tongan experiences with Mai e Nima.
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August 7th 2017
COMMUNITY
Managing Stress
The sudden death of his brother aged in his mid-30s prompted Rob Ngan-Woo to research stress in all forms of life. His popular and engaging presentation Enraged to Engaged at the Gathering of the 3000 revealed how to develop greater resilience to stress
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August 3rd 2017
COMMUNITY
Pasifika Futures to offer Whanau Ora services for another three years
Pasifika Futures has had its Whanau Ora contract extended for another three years with the Prime Minister calling their service important work that the government ‘just can’t do’.
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August 3rd 2017
HEALTH
Joseph Parker lends support to Samoan hearing initiative
WBO World Heavyweight Champion, Lupesoli'ai Laaulialemalietoa Joseph Parker, talks about his support for the Bay Audiology Free to Ear - Samoa programme that will help restore hearing to thousands in need in his homeland.
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August 1st 2017
BUSINESS
Pacific teams join Te Papa innovation hub
Three Pacific entrepreneurial teams started a four-month residency at Te Papa’s Mahuki innovation accelerator at the end of July, after taking part in a successful Pacific Innovation Workshop held in May by Mahuki Te Papa and the Pacific Business Trust.
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July 31st 2017
BUSINESS
The next director on the NZCU Employees board could be you
NZCU Employees is currently taking nominations for their Board of Directors. The board is looking for someone with a cultural understanding of their member base and the financial needs of their members who are primarily Pacific.
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July 31st 2017
NEWS
Encouraging the use of Cook Islands Maori at home
This year’s ‘Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ’Āirani: Cook Islands Language Week 2017 launched on Saturday 29 at the Auckland Museum to encourage Cook Island people to speak the language and retain the culture, especially in their homes.
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July 28th 2017
BUSINESS
Meraki: Connecting with Culture
Four St Marys College Year 13 students run cultural workshops through social enterprise Meraki. It’s a solution to the cultural disconnect experienced by many second and third generation Pacific students in New Zealand.
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July 24th 2017
COMMUNITY
David Tua: Love and Leadership
David Tua may have retired from the boxing ring four years ago, but the former world heavyweight title contender can still wow an audience, as he revealed how the love of his life helped turn his life around and give him new purpose with their Love Leadership Programme.
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July 20th 2017
COMMUNITY
Stories of our Pacific fathers: Tokelauan Migration Story
This Pasefika Proud Migration and Legacy video from the Stories of our Pacific fathers series features Niusila Taupe from Tokelau. Niusila says that when he first came to New Zealand he had no problems because of fellow Pacific people and the church.
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July 13th 2017
News
Kiribati Independence Day Celebrations in NZ 2017
With a growing population of I-Kiribati in New Zealand let us take a look at a brief history of the islands, of I-Kiribati in NZ and what events are being held this week in NZ to celebrate Kiribati Independence Day July 12 2017.
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July 12th 2017
Sports
Humpday highlights: Pacific Nations Cup Rounds 1 and 2
Check out the highlights from Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2017 World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup below as Fiji qualifies for the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Samoa and Tonga still in competition for second Oceania qualifying spot.
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July 11th 2017
Community
Stories of our Pacific fathers: Samoan Migration Story
Pasefika Proud's new series of Migration and Legacy stories of our Pacific fathers launched at the Gathering of the 3000. Watch and listen to Etipasi Daniells-Silva who migrated from Samoa in 1958 with dreams of becoming a film star.
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July 10th 2017
HEALTH
Fono GP on making lives better at an affordable cost
General Practitioner Doctor Raina Elley enjoys a varied clientele at the affordable Fono Central clinic in Auckland city, where she has taken on a more permanent role after two years working as a locum Doctor.
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July 7th 2017
Education
Pacific books round up
From Michael Fitzgerald’s debut novel about the last days of Robert Louis Stevenson, The Pacific Room, to a collection of plays from some talented Pacific playwrights, there should be something you or a loved one might be interested in reading.
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July 7th 2017
HEALTH
Teina always going the extra mile
Auckland based provider Pacific Homecare’s Employee of the Month for June was Support Worker Teinakore-O-George Tutai (Teina). Teina's dedication to looking after her complex clients and going the extra mile is what makes her such an asset to the team
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July 6th 2017
Business
PBT helping make money matter to kids
To help combat the lack of financial literacy skills among the Pacific community Brittany Teei and her mother Teri (Tereapii) launched Kids Coin, an online tool that empowers students from years 3-10 to teach themselves about money.
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June 30th 2017
Community
Tokelau Family Violence Training Programme in Porirua
A Tokelau Family Violence Training Programme - Kāinga Māopoopo will be held in Porirua over five full days of training between 6-14 July. The programme aims to help practitioners, community leaders, and community members who may engage with Tokelauan families to prevent family violence.
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June 28 2017
Entertainment
Māori success to be celebrated at 2017 Matariki Awards
Julian Dennison, Taika Waititi, Mike King and Graham Hoete are among finalists announced for the 2017 Matariki Awards to be hosted by Stacey Morrison and Pio Terei at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on Friday 21 July.
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June 27th 2017
Community
David Tua hopes to inspire hundreds of Pacific Men to change lives
Hundreds of Pacific men will gather in Wellington to address issues such as family violence, health and financial capability at a time when police investigations into family violence hit a record high.
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June 26th 2017
HEALTH
Time to ditch sugary drinks in schools
The New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) and Maori health care provider Hāpai Te Hauora have called on Education Minister Nikki Kaye to back ‘water only’ schools as two primary schools become the first in Auckland to ditch sugary drinks completely.
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June 15th 2017
News
MPP Chief Executive Pauline A. Winter gives thanks
In her last contribution to Spasifik Magazine in her capacity as Chief Executive of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, PAULINE A. WINTER (QSO) wishes to express thanks to all those who have supported her last five years.
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June 13th 2017
Community
Understanding and Action through Faith
Pastors Maria and Apolo Simeona of Kings Lake Living Waters and Rev Masunu Utumapu, Samoan Methodist Church Auckland South Synod are both passionate about finding solutions to the issues of family violence within their congregations and communities.
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June 8th 2017
Education
St Cuthberts Sister Act Scholarship Duo
An engineer, a lawyer, a teacher, a doctor; Tiana and Alayna Willis-Baker change their minds daily about what they want to do when they leave St Cuthbert’s College. The scholarship duo are sisters who were both awarded Endeavour Scholarships to study at St Cuthbert’s College.
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June 8th 2017
Art
Fāgogo o Pati Solomona Tyrell at ST PAUL St Gallery
Emerging Auckland-based Samoan visual artist, Hamilton-born and raised Pati Solomona Tyrell, explores urban Pacific queer identity in his debut solo exhibition Fāgogo at ST PAUL St Gallery, on display until July 21.
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June 7th 2017
Education
Unitec students Waiting for 2017 International Film Festival
Student film Waiting- one of two short films by Unitec students screened at the Wairoa Maori Film Festival over the Queen’s Birthday weekend- has been selected to screen as part of this year's NZ International Film Festival.
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June 7th 2017
Business
Pasifika businesses forging new digital frontiers
A three-day pre-accelerator workshop held at Te Papa’s innovation hub Mahuki in May saw five selected teams experience design, technology, mobile, security, data collection management, social media authentication, language protection and technology.
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May 22nd 2017
Region
Strengthening Pacific Ties
Lonely Planet, the New Economics Foundation and Friends of the Earth all voted the Pacific nation of Vanuatu as the happiest place on earth in their happiness indexes. On an official visit in late 2016, Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai spoke to INNES LOGAN about his country’s growing relationship with New Zealand
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May 18th 2017
Education
Petone: to shoot or study
When Petone Groom finished school he was faced with a tough choice: pursue professional sport like his brother and sister or leap into university. He chose to challenge himself by enrolling into university and is currently in his third year of a degree in Industrial Design at Victoria University of Wellington.
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May 15 2017
Community
United in protecting the women of the world
Presenting at the United Nations in New York Conference on The Prevention of Violence Against Women in 2013 was an honour in itself for Porirua’s Fa’aolataga Leasi. What made it more rewarding was coming away from it knowing it wasn’t ‘just another talkfest’.
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May 9th 2017
Business
A Language of Discovery
A desire to learn her native Cook Islands language is driving Koni Rairoa and her friend Lillian Arp to partner to create a language preservation app. With the support of the Pacific Business Trust, they feature in the Pasifika and Tech – Building Creative Futures event part of tech-week running May 8-12
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May 9th 2017
Business
Ticking all the right boxes
From numerous jobs involving packaging, Samoan Josephine Hale has designed and made a cardboard box that is re-useable, simple to use and perfect for supermarket owners who want to avoid staff injuries when cutting boxes in the rush to get products on the shelves.
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May 2nd 2017
News
Pacific Homecare commends pay rise for homecare sector
At the end of April, Government announced a historic pay equity deal for care workers, a decisions which directly affects Auckland-based provider Pacific Homecare staff working with the elderly and disabled community.
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April May 1st 2017
Entertainment
60 South Auckland students called to Rise in inter-school production
A first-of-its-kind production, involving 60 students from eight different schools in South Auckland, aims to highlight the lives of young Pacific leaders growing up in the South of Auckland.
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April 20th 2017
Community
A potential to be realised
As a first generation New Zealand-born Cook Islander, Minister for Pacific Peoples and former pastor at the Tamaki Community Church, Hon. Alfred Ngaro recalls growing up in the Auckland inner-city suburb of Ponsonby in the 1970s.
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April 18th 2017
Community
Breaking the Cycle
Mother of Divine Mercy Women’s Refuge helps victims of family violence get away from harm and to begin the process of healing through a ‘whole family’ approach. Susana Fiu Fetalai shares her story and how it motivated her work in family violence.
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April 10th 2017
HEALTH
Niva always in demand
Auckland based provider Pacific Homecare’s Employee of the Month for March was Niva Tuteru-Maroroa who always puts in 100%. Her Coordinator says she is ‘in demand’ by clients and that’s why she is our March Employee of the Month! Learn a bit about her through this Q&A
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April 7th 2017
News
Transforming Hopes from One Thousand Ropes
The Auckland and Wellington premieres in March for the film One Thousand Ropes, supported by Pasefika Proud, left audiences in no doubt about the lasting devastation violence can cause to Pacific families. Men who attended the premieres were moved by its impact
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April 6th 2017
Community
Is sending troubled youths back to the islands really the answer?
A new study of Samoan youth gangs in South Auckland has found that sending troubled youth back to their homeland can be detrimental to their wellbeing, and that of the village they are sent to.
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April 5th 2017
Entertainment
Tongan royal blessing makes music history
Auckland-based dance group Pukepuke o’ Tonga will make music history on Saturday 8 April, when they perform New Zealand’s premiere of ‘Lomipeau Aotearoa’, an album of unique recordings based on the mythical poetry of the late Queen Salote Tupou III, at Auckland Council’s Mangere Arts Centre.
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March 29th 2017
Business
Path to Market delegations a hit at Pasifika
Pacific Islands Trade & Invest’s (PT&I’s) delegation of 25 small Pacific Island businesses was a hit at Auckland’s Pasifika Festival in March. It was the largest delegation yet to attend, and showcase their products at, the two-day festival under the PT&I Pacific Path to Market programme.
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March 29th 2017
Education
Hawaiian Graffiti Artist Estria Collaborates with Unitec students at Pasifika
Legendary graffiti artist Estria Miyashiro came to Auckland to help create art at the Hawaiian village at this year’s Pasifika Festival by way of a mural, with the help of Unitec and Kelston Girls College students.
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March 21st 2017
Entertainment
Against the Ropes: One Thousand Ropes Review
One Thousand Ropes, from critically acclaimed writer and director Tusi Tamasese, is a gritty Wellington-set domestic drama starring Frankie Adams and Uelese Petaia. LAUMATA LAUANO gives her take. Slight spoilers ahead.
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March 16th 2017
Community
Pasifika Fono: Shape your South Auckland Community
National health support service provider Vaka Tautua are hosting a free event calling Pasifika people of all ages and islands to come along to express their opinion and talanoa with local board members.
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March 15th 2017
Entertainment
No Time to Josh Around: Gary of the Pacific
Josh Thomson is a big man from small beginnings. Big in the fact he’s built like many Tongan men, small in that he’s from the town of Timaru in the South Island. The new movie Gary of the Pacific is his first big break as a lead role. And he couldn’t think of a better place to film it than a small Pacific island, writes INNES LOGAN
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March 13th 2017
Environment
De-sex our cats: calling all Maori and Pacific cat owners
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. More than a third of Pacific families (35%) have a cat compared to half of Maori families and despite an increase in de-sexing cats since 2011 some families still need to de-sex their feline family members.
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March 8th 2017
HEALTH
Building Michael's Confidence
When Michael Siaopo was almost three years old, his parents Anele and Nigel, noticed he was slow in the way he spoke compared to other children his age. They initially thought he might have a hearing impairment. He didn't.
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March 7th 2017
Education
42nd Polyfest - Nurturing Leadership Through Culture
Cultural groups from secondary schools across Auckland are gearing up for the 42nd staging of the ASB Polyfest, which kicks off on Wednesday, March 15 to Saturday, March 18 at the Sports Bowl in Manukau.
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March 1st 2017
Education
Fitting in to Uni life
New students at the University of Auckland began their first semester of their first year fresh-eyed and bushy-tailed. There is a group of new students, however, who were already used to the hustle and bustle of university life, thanks to Unibound.
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February 27th 2017
Education
Familiar Surroundings for New Minister
Minister of Pacific Peoples Alfred Ngaro revealed his strong South Auckland connection visiting the Manukau Institute of Technology as special guest speaker at its latest networking event hosted by the MIT Pasifika Development team.
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February 24th 2017
HEALTH
The Unstoppable Uriaau
Auckland based provider Pacific Homecare’s Employee of the Month for January was Uriaau Epi, who found her calling while caring for both her ill sister and father.A superstar at Pacific Homecare, Cook Islander Uriaau received some great feedback from the Needs Assessment and Service Coordination service (NASC) physio.Pacific Homecare shares a bit about her through this Q&A
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February 24th 2017
HEALTH
Seeing Smiling Patients
Samoan-born and raised Patrick Soon, of Chinese and Samoan descent, is a senior dental assistant from the Auckland based innovative health organisation, The Fono. Based at The Fono’s Wyndham Street Dental Clinic, Patrick loves seeing patients smile once they’ve been treated.
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February 20th 2017
Education
New Partnership Combines Maori Heritage with Cooking Skills
Nestlé Cook for Life - Ka Tuna Ka Ora joins Mangere Mountain Education Centre (MMEC) to deliver a unique, interactive, daylong workshop to over 750 secondary school students across Auckland this year.
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February 17th 2017
Sports
Tongan Skier eyeing the 2018 Winter Olympics fails to finish
Less than a year away from the Winter Olympics in South Korea Tongan-English Kasete Naufahu Skeen, who transformed his life completely in a bid to represent Tonga in Alpine Skiing, was unable to achieve a result on his debut at the Alpine World Ski Champs in St Moritz.
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February 8th 2017
HEALTH
Growing the Pasifika Health Workforce: Athena Tapu spotlight
Multi-year recipient of a Pacific Mental Health and Addictions Scholarship Athena Tapu was inspired by her family and community to pursue Psychotherapy. Read about her journey below along with how to apply for the 2017 Pacific Mental Health and Addiction Scholarship for those interested.
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February 7th 2017
News
Maori health organisation condemns online slot game using Maori cultural symbols
Maori public health organisation Hapai Te Hauora has condemned an online slot game that uses Maori cultural icons including waka, stylised bone carvings, pounamu, and the haka Ka Mate.
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January 17th 2017
HEALTH
Mili's Mission
Auckland based provider Pacific Homecare’s Employee of the Month for December was Miliaoga Fa’afaga, whose loyalty comes second-to-none. Having worked at Pacific Homecare for more than 20 years and has never called in sick Mili is always willing to go the extra mile with a positive attitude towards everything she does. Pacific Homecare shares a bit about her through this Q&A9.
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December 21st 2016
Business
PBT supports exciting tech initiative
The Pacific Business Trust is making a commitment to support Pacific and Maori entrepreneurs in the creative, cultural and tech sectors, following the Mahuki showcase hosted at Te Papa in Wellington on Monday December 5, 2016.
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December 9th 2016
Health
Pacific shines at the 2016 Attitude Awards
There were two award recipients of Pacific descent at the 2016 Attitude Awards, 15 year old Paralympic swimmer Tupou Seini Neiufi won the Emerging Athlete Award, and music teacher Ese Aumalesulu received the Spirit of Attitude Award.
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December 8th 2016
Health
Safekids moving Whare: raising Maori and Pacific awareness on home safety with interactive exhibition
SafeKids’ Whare, a travelling exhibition that will visit 10 regions throughout Aotearoa in 2017, will raise awareness about the leading injuries in tamariki; those that happen in the home- an issue particularly prevalent in Maori and Pacific communities.
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December 2nd 2016
Entertainment
Sons of Zion release new MV for latest single
Sons of Zion, who featured in Issue 66 of SPASIFIK Magazine, have released a new music video for their latest single ‘Now’ ahead of a summer 2016 tour with Katchafire, Aaradhna and sometimes KORA.
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December 2nd 2016
Health
Pacific Health research to help older generations create change for themselves
The Pacific Islands Families (PIF) Study at AUT South Campus has been awarded almost $1 million for innovative research as part of the ‘Ageing Well’ National Science Challenge.
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December 1st 2016
Community
A bit of South Auckland in the CBD with popUP South
From December 1st through til the 21st, Aucklanders and tourists will be able to visit popUP South, which showcases a rich diversity of Polynesian handicrafts, food and entertainment from South Auckland at the Wynyard Quarter on Auckland’s waterfront every day from midday til 8pm.
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November 28th 2016
Community
Canterbury Lecturer asks: Is Nathan Pukeroa our Trayvon Martin?
University of Canterbury lecturer Garrick Cooper of Aotahi: School of Māori and Indigenous Studies discusses the lack of public outcry over the death of Nathan Pukeroa who was stabbed and killed by Dustin La Mont in December 2015, La Mont has been found not guilty of Pukeroa’s murder.
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November 10th 2016
Business
NZCU Employees newest staff member Ana aims to help members
Ana Vaiangina is quickly learning the ropes in her role at NZCU Employees. The New Zealand-born Tongan says she’s ready to help as many Pacific people looking to make wise decisions when it comes to their money as possible.
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November 3rd 2016
Entertainment
Pollywood showcasing Pacific filmmaking talent
Pollywood screened eight films by Pacific filmmakers, of both amateur and professional calibre, at the Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery on November 2nd, leaving a wowed audience stunned by the talent on offer.
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November 2nd 2016
Health
Meet Sesa a Quit Smoking Specialist from the Fono
New Zealand-born Samoan Sesalina (Sesa) Setu who’s based at the Fono’s new location on the North Shore is part of the Fono’s new team of Quit Smoking Specialists who not only want to help you stop smoking but also improve your health and wellbeing.
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October 31st 2016
Community
Prime Minister's Pacific Youth Awards 2016 are open
Nominations for The Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards, which recognise and reward high-achieving young Pacific New Zealanders who have potential to make a big contribution to New Zealand, are open until November 7th.
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October 31st 2016
Education
New leader for Māori and Pasifika at Massey Unviersity
New Assistant Vice-Chancellor Māori and Pasifika at Massey University, Dr Charlotte Severne (Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Ngāi Tūhoe) is a geologist, former chief scientist for oceans and Māori development at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research and, most recently, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori and Communities at Lincoln University.
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October 27th 2016
Health
First No Sugary Drinks logo in New Zealand
New Zealand’s first “no sugary drinks” logo was unveiled at an event in Wellington, at the FIZZ symposium (Toward a sugary drink-free Aotearoa) to empower communities around NZ to lift their health and wellbeing.
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October 14th 2016
Business
2016 National Pacific Business Trust Awards finalists named
Finalists for the 2016 National Pacific Business Trust Awards have been named, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Friday 28 October 2016 at the Langham Hotel in Auckland.
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October 13th 2016
Education
Involved in Aganu'u Fa'asamoa 101 to honour mum
The ‘Aganu’u Fa’asamoa 101’ course is an innovative development initiative funded by Pasifika Futures under the Whanau Ora programme, designed to deliver cultural and language-standard skills for a wide range of Pacific families, including individuals from vocational careers which require the use of a Pacific language.
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October 13th 2016
Environment
Pasifika students from Unitec and MIT building cyclone-resistant homes in Fiji
Eleven Unitec, and three MIT, trades students return from spending two weeks working alongside a Fijian community in Western Fiji near Nadi to build four cyclone-resistant houses.
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October 10th 2016
ISSUE 68 EXCLUSIVE
Education
First law student cohort at AUT South Campus
This year Auckland University of Technology welcomed the first cohort of Law students to its South Campus. The new Bachelor of Laws (LLB) pathway signalled greater accessibility to legal education in South Auckland. Now the offering is being expanded to include second-year Law in 2017.
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October 7th 2016
ISSUE 68 EXCLUSIVE
Education
It's your game. Light it up
When Christchurch’s temporary sports stadium lit up in 2012, it was hailed a spectacular success. “Truly heartening!” said Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee.“Spectacular!” said Christchurch Stadium Trust’s Jim Anderton.
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October 6th 2016
ISSUE 68 EXCLUSIVE
Education
Whitireia Journalism developing a new generation of Pasifika
story-tellers
Whitireia has led and illuminated its communities through quality tertiary education for more than 30 years, and it is now the tertiary institution of choice for over 8000 students.
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October 6th 2016
ISSUE 68 EXCLUSIVE
Education
From UniBound student to mentor and beyond
The University of Auckland’s UniBound (Certificate in Academic Preparation) programme prepares Pacific and Māori school leavers for study and gives them a head start at University. We caught up with Kesaia Tapueluelu, UniBound’s first student to graduate from the University of Auckland.
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October 3rd 2016
Community
Pacific families on the North Shore to benefit from new services
Pacific families living on the North Shore will now benefit from community-based services delivered by The Fono, which opened a new location on Saturday 1 October at Raeburn House in the Northcote Shopping Centre.
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October 3rd 2016
Education
Unique academic career opportunity for Maori and Pacific
There are six lecturer positions available for Maori and/or Pacific staff available at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT), as it seeks to be a university of opportunity for Maori and Pacific people.
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September 26th 2016
News
Celebrate Tuvalu Language Week 2016
Tuvalu Language Week has kicked off, launched by the Pacific Peoples Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, and will run through to the end of the week on October 1st to coincide with 38th Tuvalu Independence Day celebrations.
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September 23rd 2016
Business
Tickets on sale for 10th National Pacific Business Trust Awards
The National Pacific Business Trust Awards will be staged on Friday, 28 October 2016 at the Langham Hotel in Auckland and tickets are on sale. The evening will include live entertainment, sumptuous food and beverages and a black tie awards ceremony.
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September 19th 2016
Entertainment
Mangere and Otahuhu locals combine to produce music
Over 100 participants from Mangere and Otahuhu, from emerging grassroots to established artists, primary and secondary schools, community groups and leaders, have contributed to the making of a combined Community music project.
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September 15th 2015
News
How the Capital celebrated Tongan Language Week
Tongan Language Week which ran from September 4 - 10 was marked with celebrations and cultural activities across New Zealand along with a special celebration hosted by the Wellington Tongan Leaders’ Council in Wellington.
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September 9th 2016
Business
How to reduce your debt and start saving
Life can be expensive, and when the bills are piling up, and debt is growing, it’s sometimes hard to see a way out of your debt. NZCU Employees is a Credit Union based in Penrose, and most of their members are Pacific families. The credit union is helping families to break the cycle of debt and improve their finances for healthier and happier futures. Find out how
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September 7th 2016
Entertainment
Forgotten Dawn Children remembered in Pasifika Film to screen in Sydney
AUT students and filmmakers Joshua Iosefo and Corey Larry Sio’s film Forgotten Dawn Children has been selected to screen in Sydney at the Pasifika Film Festival this year.
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September 1st 2016
Entertainment
Tusiata Avia’s critically acclaimed Wild Dogs Under My Skirt coming to Mangere Arts Centre
Following the critically acclaimed productions of CLUB PARADISO by Victor Rodger, and PUZZY by Kiana Rivera featuring Victor Rodger, FCC are proud to present Wild Dogs Under My Skirt by Tusiata Avia.
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August 30th 2016
Entertainment
Pacific Fusion Fashion Show to feature Rio Olympics 2016 Tongan Flag Bearer
The Pacific Fusion Fashion Show this Saturday, September 3rd from 6 p.m. at Andrew Simms-Botany will feature the man who “broke the internet” during the Rio Olympics, Tongan flag bearer Pita Taufatofua
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August 26th 2016
News
Maori and Pasifika Triumph at Inaugural Future Business Leader Awards for Apprentices
The inaugural Future Business Leaders Awards event was held in Auckland on 25 August to celebrate the achievements of New Zealand’s ‘bright young things’ in the trades and services.
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August 26th 2016
Entertainment
Annual Tautai project OFFSTAGE7 provides artists platform to present new experimental work
OFFSTAGE 7 which goes from 3 to 15 September 2016 is an annual Tautai project which provides artists with an opportunity to present new and experimental moving image and performance work. This year’s OFFSTAGE is the third time that Artspace has collaborated on the event.
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August 25th 2016
News
Oxfam NZ supports ‘no decision’ calls on PACER PLUS
In a statement released August 23 Oxfam NZ support calls for ‘no decision’ on the PACER Plus regional free trade agreement between Pacific Island countries, Australia and New Zealand, as Pacific people are most likely to lose out in the deal.
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August 25th 2016
Business
Recognising and celebrating Pacific Businesses Successes
The Pacific Business Trust (PBT) brings back the National Pacific Business Trust Awards on Friday 28 October. Nominations are currently open and close 31 August. The awards are for Pacific-owned businesses, Pacific business individuals, Pacific executives working in mainstream organisations and employers of Pacific staff.
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August 24th 2016
Business
NZCU Employees’ Business Development and Lending Manager: caring for members
With more than two decades of experience working in the financial sector in both New Zealand and Samoa, Lele Faifai is motivated to help Pacific people learn to use their hard-earned money wisely.
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August 23th 2016
Education
INFLUX of diverse artworks to understand the Pacific from different perspectives
INFLUX brings together diverse artworks that collectively push and pull our understanding of the Pacific from a perspective that is much larger than Aotearoa New Zealand.
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August 23th 2016
Education
Oceania Media Intern Moana Ageli: Win or learn
Moana Ageli is studying Communications at Unitec and hopes to one day use her degree to encourage, inspire and inform young Pacific leaders of tomorrow. While interning at Oceania Media, publishers of SPASIFIK, Moana shares her goals and plans for the future.
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August 19th 2016
Education
Inaugural Pacific Police Internal Support Network Fono
Pacific police from around Auckland gathered in Papatoetoe for the inaugural Pacific Police Internal Support Network Fono at the end of July 2016, raising important issues faced by the Pacific men and women in blue, while also marking 75 years of women in the force.
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August 15th 2016
Education
Skills Mentor Switched on For Study
As a production engineer at BREMCA, the largest electrical switchboard manufacturer owned and operated in New Zealand, Samoan-born Itunu George Tupai is passing on the skills he has learnt from 15 years’ experience, to young Pasifika apprentices.
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August 4th 2016
Entertainment
Ninety-year-old film of Samoa brought back to life
Victoria University of Wellington’s Stout Research Centre and Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision have come together to host the New Zealand premiere public screening of the restored 1926 film Moana: A Romance of the Golden Age.
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August 4th 2016
Entertainment
New collection of short stories from award-winning Pacific poet and playwright
A new collection of short stories by Pacific writer, Courtney Sina Meredith, was launched on August 2, ahead of Courtney’s Fall Residency at the International Writing Program, Iowa University from August to November 2016.
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August 4th 2016
Education
AUT students explore Life Below Water for Cook Islands Language Week
For Cook Islands Language Week AUT, who are honouring Pacific Language Weeks through a series of short videos, are focussing on the sustainable development goal ‘Life Below Water’, which champions conservation and the sustainable use of our seas, oceans and marine resources.
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August 3rd 2016
News
SuperKid to help super kids take their antibiotics
To encourage children to take all of their antibiotic medicine Health Promotion Agency (HPA) has created a new SuperKid character to be engaging for children aged 4-10 years in the fight against rheumatic fever
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August 2nd 2016
Health
Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in the Pacific
TAHA, together with the Pacific Society for Reproductive Health, are hosting the Catalysts 4 Change - Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Women, Children and their Families Conference on the 3-4 August 2016
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July 27th 2016
Entertainment
Miss Samoa NZ Pageant celebrates 25 years as new Miss Samoan NZ Crowned
Miss Samoa NZ celebrated its 25th year in early July as it crowned this year’s Miss Samoa NZ, Naomi Fruean, who will represent NZ in Samoa at Teuila Festival later on this year.
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July 22st 2016
Education
20-year photography project documenting lives of people in Samoan village
Auckland-based Samoan photographer Evotia Tamua will use an artist residency at the National University of Samoa to complete a 20-year photography project documenting the changing lives of people in Salelesi village.
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July 20th 2016
Sport
League takes centre stadium in Hawaii with Ohana Cup and Rugby League Festival
Hawaii, an island that’s traditionally been entrenched in American Football, will host a two-day Rugby League Festival where teams will play for the Ohana Cup at Aloha Stadium in August.
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July 15th 2016
Health
Rheumatic Fever – Warmer, drier homes
Keep your home warm and dry and create as much space to spread out around your home, rather than having to crowd in the same room. Having more warm rooms and more sleeping spaces available means germs such as strep throat, which can lead to rheumatic fever, are less likely to spread.
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July 15th 2016
News
12-year-old Samoan author publishes children’s’ book on the environment
12-year-old Lupeoaunu'u (Lupe) Va’ai from Vaoala in Samoa travelled to London to launch her book on the world stage titled The Voice of an Island looking at the effect humans can have on the environment.
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July 14th 2016
Education
First Robert Burns Fellow of Samoan descent visits Wellington
While in Wellington for the Writers on Mondays winter reading series acclaimed New Zealand dramatist Victor Rodger will attend a talanoa (discussion) co-hosted by Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika) Luamanuvao Winnie Laban and the Victoria University of Wellington’s International Institute of Modern Letters (IIML).
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July 14th 2016
Community
Southland community mourns loss of Pacific youth leader
A prominent Pacific youth leader in the Southland community, Sootagaoaiga (Sam) Lavea passed away in early July 2016 when the car he was driving crashed into a large power pole on State Highway 1, near Invercargill.
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July 13th 2016
Entertainment
Pacific singers in Grand Finals of Lexus Song Quest
Samoan/Niuean/European soprano singer Madison Nonoa, Tongan tenor Filipe Manu and baritone Benson Wilson, of Samoan descent, have each made it to the Grand Finals of the biennial Lexus Song Quest. Get to know the Pacific singers who will compete during the Lexus Song Quest Grand Final Gala night in Auckland on 23 July.
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July 12th 2016
Anaseini’s quality service
Born and raised in Tonga, Support Worker Anaseini Fua has consistently provided quality service to each client she looks after, with a respectful mannerism that helps her relate to clients and their family members. Because of her ability to listen to their needs, and advocate well for them by communicating to our Coordinators, Anaseini is our Employee of the Month for May! We catch up with her for a quick Q & A
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July 8th 2016
Sport
Canterbury rugby player suspended for racist slur to Fijian opponent
The Human Rights Commission welcomes Canterbury Rugby Football Union’s move to penalise a Canterbury rugby for 40 weeks after making racist remarks to a Fijian player on the opposing team.
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July 7th 2016
Football
Standout Samoan New Zealand footballer Bill Tuiloma
In an article for Vice Sports (in partnership with NIKEiD and photographed by Ben Clement) Bill Tuiloma talks to Vice about life as the first New Zealander playing top division French football and making an international reputation as a hard working player.
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July 7th 2016
Business Time for Pacific Pioneer
Newly-appointed Pacific Business Trust chair Fa’amatuainu (Inu) Tino Pereira knows all about the peaks and pitfalls of two decades in business. In SPASIFIK Issue 67, he shares his story with INNES LOGAN and his desire and support for Pacific people rising to the challenge in an increasingly entrepreneurial environment.
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July 4th 2016
Business
Nominations open for 10th National Pacific Business Trust Awards
The National Pacific Business Trust Awards return on Friday, 28 October 2016, and nominations close 31 August 2016. Run by the Pacific Business Trust (PBT), the awards have been staged nine times since 1993.
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July 4th 2016
Health
South Seas Healthcare Trust announces new CEO
Pacific health provider South Seas Healthcare Trust has announced a new CEO, Silao Vaisola Sefo, to oversee the growth of the organisation and provide leadership at Otara’s biggest health and social service centre.
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July 1st 2016
Bowel cancer atlas reveal info on Pacific and Maori population and the disease
About 40% of Maori and Pacific people with bowel cancer only found out they have the disease when they require emergency hospital care, according to new information released by the Health Quality and Safe Commission in late June 2016.
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June 30th 2016
Community
Continuity of care in Manurewa
Auckland based innovative health organisation, The Fono says the relationship between doctor and patient is one that is special and unique. Providing a continuity of care to the varied and complex needs of patients, while taking a caring approach, takes a special kind of General Practitioner (GP).
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June 29th 2016
Community
Young Tongan leader receives award from Queen
Tonga’s ‘Aiona Prescott (21) received the Queen’s Young Leaders Award in late June at a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London, in recognition of exceptional young people from across the Commonwealth who are making lasting change in their communities.
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June 29th 2016
Community
Breaking Silence: GI Babies and their Pasifika Mothers
About two million American servicemen spent time on Pacific Islands between 1942 - 1945/1946 - and it is estimated that about 2000 babies were born as a result of relationships with local women. Very little was known about these children, from outside their own villages and islands, until now.
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June 27th 2016
News
PBT supports businesses showcasing their products
The Pacific Business Trust (PBT) has teamed up with the Ministry of Pacific Peoples, Westpac and Crowe Horwarth to identify and showcase Pacific and Maori catering and hospitality businesses in front of mainstream procurement organisations.
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June 22nd 2016
Community
Pacific Leaders share solutions to prevent family violence
Pacific leaders from churches and social services around New Zealand came together for the first time at the Pasefika Proud National Pacific Leaders Fono, hosted by the Ministry of Social Development, to find solutions to end family violence in Pacific families.
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June 8th 2016
Entertainment
Pacific Underground to be recognised with Lifetime Achievement Award at PMAs
The performing arts collective Pacific Underground, formed in Christchurch in the 90s, will be recognised at this year’s Vodafone Pacific Music Awards this June for their significant 20-year plus contribution to Pacific music.
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June 7th 2016
Health
The Fono Central Perks
Dentist Mariam Anwar from the Auckland based innovative health organisation, The Fono says she disliked her crooked teeth when she was growing up. But the skills of her family orthodontist to correct them inspired her into the profession.
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June 7th 2016
Health
AUT inspires Seychelles’ response to childhood obesity
Director of Family Health and Nutrition Programmes for the Seychelles Islands, Rosie Bistoquet, is excited to gain insights to take back to her developing nation of Seychelles, on curbing childhood obesity.
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June 7th 2016
Entertainment
Massive Company’s Island headed to Scotland after Mangere run
Massive Company presents their new show The Island, directed by Sam Scott and Miriama McDowell, at the Mangere Arts Centre from 28th June - 1st July before they head off to the National Theatre of Scotland– on invitation to their Exchange Festival.
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June 7th 2016
News
Peter Maivia posthumously inducted into Pro-Wrestling Hall of Fame
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson paid tribute to his late grandfather, via his Instagram, with a picture of Maivia and a tribute to the man who helped put Samoa on the map and was recently inducted into the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame.
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June 7th 2016
Entertainment
Pacific singers in semi-finals for Lexus Song Quest
Three Pacific singers from Auckland are amongst the 10 selected in May to compete towards the grand finals of the biennial Lexus Song Quest – Samoan/European soprano singer Madison Nonoa, Tongan tenor Filipe Manu and baritone Benson Wilson, of Samoan descent.
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May 30th 2016
Entertainment
Concert to celebrate Samoa Independence Day in NZ
To celebrate Samoan Independence Day, which is observed on the first of June each year despite taking place January 1st 1962, in New Zealand a concert will be held on June 3rd at Life Church in Manurewa.
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May 30th 2016
Entertainment
Move at Mangere Arts Centre | Review
Kinetic Wayfinding’s dance theatre play Move, an exploration of how young people face complex issues and emotions, opened at the Mangere Arts Centre on May 23. LAUMATA LAUANO went along to see the show and see how the cast have progressed since their first opening night at Te Oro in Glen Innes
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May 30th 2016
Entertainment
Te Reo Maori Finds a Contemporary Voice in Theatre
For the first time ever, the classic award-winning Māori play Purapurawhetū will be presented in full te reo Māori for two seasons at Te Pou Theatre from 6-9 July and at The Herald Theatre from 13 -16 July as part of the 2016 Matariki celebrations.
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May 24th 2016
Health
Pacific leaders will meet to tackle NCDs
Pacific Island leaders, ministers and officials from regional and global development agencies will gather in the Kingdom of Tonga from 20-22 June 2016 to discuss better ways to tackle the region’s non-communicable diseases (NCDs) crisis.
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May 23th 2016
Entertainment
Korero Mai, Korero Atu: Artists Areta Wilkinson and Te Rongo Kirkwood at Auckland Museum
Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira announces an exciting new exhibition of contemporary art this June: Kōrero Mai, Kōrero Atu: Artists Areta Wilkinson and Te Rongo Kirkwood at Auckland Museum.
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May 19th 2016
HEALTH
Rheumatic Fever Prevention Programme commonly asked questions
Rheumatic fever is a deadly disease with 92% of all cases affecting Pacific and Maori children. It starts with a sore throat and can lead to heart surgery, and is more prevalent in the colder winter months. Rheumatic fever is a painful illness that is preventable, so take note of the key prevention message: Get your child’s sore throat checked now.
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May 18th 2016
News
Govt looks into laws around murder and manslaughter following Moko’s death
A report into whether law changes are needed has been ordered by Justice Minister Amy Adams, following the downgrade of murder charges to manslaughter for the killers of Moko Rangitoheriri.
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May 18th 2016
Health
Mangere Town Centre Celebrating Nine Years Smokefree
Mangere residents have reason to celebrate this month with their town Centre set to commemorate nine years since it became Smokefree in 2007. ASH New Zealand invites Mangere’s local residents and wider community to come together on Saturday the 28th of May, at the Mangere town square, to celebrate where it all began.
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