17 February 2006

Celebrate Auckland's Pacific flavour

Auckland, the home to the largest pacific island population in the world, is gearing up to celebrate the pacific culture that makes an important contribution to its creativity, vibrancy and diversity.

In March 2006, a cluster of 42 activities, all of which reflect the unique talents of pacific cultures in Auckland, will come together as Celebrate Pasifika, a cross-regional initiative between Auckland City, Manukau City and Waitakere City councils.

Michelle Khan, Celebrate Pasifika Development manager, says the initiative is a positive way to showcase pacific culture in Auckland.

"Pacific culture has been celebrated for years throughout the Auckland region by way of various workshops, expos, exhibitions and events like the Pasifika Festival. However, as the Pacific population swells in Auckland, there is a resulting need to increase awareness of, and celebrate Pacific culture.

"Celebrate Pasifika is the perfect way to bring Pacific-flavoured events together so that they can be enjoyed by Aucklanders, Pacific Islanders and visitors alike," says Ms Khan.

The Celebrate Pasifika programme incorporates everything from Pacific dance, crafts, workshops and exhibitions, to sport, literature, film and popular events.

Highlights include the two-day Pasifika Festival at Western Springs, the inaugural Pacific Trade Expo at the Telstra Clear Pacific Stadium, Genetic Pasifika at Auckland Museum, and Pollywood Shorts Four06 which is being held at six different locations around Auckland.

Auckland City, Manukau City and Waitakere City are working collaboratively on this initiative to support the growth of the programme into the future.

For more information on Celebrate Pasifika, please visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/celebratepasifika

This year's programme is supported by Spasifik Magazine, Niu Fm, Radio 531pi and ASB Trust.

ENDS

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