Mayor welcomes Pasifika Film Fest to the Creative Capital

Mayor welcomes Pasifika Film Fest to the Creative Capital of New Zealand

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester warmly welcomes the Pasifika Film Festival 2017 to Wellington beginning on Thursday 23 February, as it crosses the ditch for the first time.

The Pasifika Film Fest was started in Sydney, Australia in 2013 and has since become a popular platform to showcase and inspire the unique stories of Pacific people through film.

Lester, who also holds the city council’s arts portfolio, says it is a fitting opportunity for Wellington to host the second and last New Zealand leg of the Pasifika Film Fest as the creative capital of New Zealand. “Not only do we have a really unique arts community and environment but we have a strong Pacific population so this is very exciting.

“The council is committed to working with communities, business, the arts and cultural sector and creative industries to ensure we’re tapping into opportunities to strengthen Wellington’s arts experiences.” Says Justin Lester.

Spearheading the festival is Rugby League legend and the festivals co-director Nigel Vagana who says story telling is in our bones as Pacific people and is something we’ve inherited from our ancestors.

“History tells us that we have a strong oral tradition, our ancestors, our grandparents and even our parents are natural storytellers and narrators of their own unique journeys.” Says Vagana.

“To be able to help facilitate the telling of our stories as Pacific people through this festival and film, is particularly special and we hope people walk out inspired to harness their creative side.” Says Nigel Vagana.

The Pasifika Film Fest runs from Thursday 23 February to Sunday 26 February with all viewing sessions held at The Embassy Theatre. Tickets can be purchased here: http://www.pasifikafilmfest.com/buy-tickets

ENDS

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