Pasifika - Paradise in the Park

Pasifika - Paradise in the Park

Pasifika Festival invites Aucklanders to explore a slice of island paradise at Western Springs Park on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March. As the world’s biggest celebration of Pacific Island culture and heritage in the world, the festival celebrates its 24th birthday this year.

The free, family-friendly festival presents the colourful sights, sounds and tantalising tastes of the Pacific in 11 villages representing different Pacific Island nations.

Each day provides a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Saturday has a festive and busy vibe and Sunday is a good choice for those who prefer a relaxed pace. Each village features traditional and contemporary performances for the whole family alongside delicious food to sit back and savour.

The craft stalls provide something for everyone with an extensive range of products to purchase, from Cook Islands pearls and garments to hand-made wooden instruments and frangipani plants of the Pacific. Children will also enjoy the stalls with the many of the authentic crafts being affordable with their pocket money.

In light of the devastation caused by Cyclone Winston in the Pacific Islands, visitors can make a gold coin donation and try their luck at the Tip Top 'dunking machine'. All proceeds will go to the relief effort.

Mayor Len Brown says Auckland is renowned for its Pacific influences, with its large Polynesian and Pacific Island population.

“New Zealand is a Pacific nation, and nowhere in New Zealand is that more strongly expressed than in Auckland. Pacific Island Aucklanders are an important and well-established part of our diverse population, which is reflected in Pasifika being one of our longest-standing and most loved annual festivals, giving all Aucklanders and visitors to the region the opportunity to share this celebration.”

Proudly supported by AMI Insurance, Pasifika Festival forms part of the Auckland’s summer event programme. It is being delivered for the second year by Orange Productions on behalf of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) and Auckland Council.

Other sponsors include Mai FM, Tip Top, Air New Zealand, Edgewater Resort, Nui FM and more.

To find out more about Pasifika Festival 2016, go to:

www.aucklandnz.com/pasifika
Facebook – What’s on in Auckland
Instagram – @PasifikaFestival_AKL

People interested in being volunteers at Pasifika can now apply on the website www.aucklandnz.com/pasifika.

ENDS

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