Tonga

Village Coordinator – Wai Tufui

What are your village’s music highlights?

There are so many! For me personally, I can’t wait to see the brass bands and performances from a group of about 40 people travelling specially from Tonga, as well as the National Cultural Centre and local churches and youth groups. These groups will also be on Sunday, but with faith-based content.

What are some must see activities?

Make sure you see the traditional weaving and decorating kato teu, the traditional decorations of woven bags for ceremonial functions.

What’s a ‘must-try’ dish?

Umu – (on Saturday only) as an experience on preparing dishes like lu pulu, lu sipi and others.
Tunu Puaka (whole pig roast on spit) – served with taro, cassava or yam with lu (cooked taro leaves).

What’s a little-known fact about your country or Pasifika village?

We are very excited that a member of the Tongan royal family is attending – with the Hon. Phaedra 'Anaseini Tupouveihola Fusitu'a joining us.

What else can you tell us about the village?

We are also honoured to have a group of over 40 people travelling from Tonga especially for the festival. They have represented Tonga in festivals overseas and are a very experienced group. It’s also a great opportunity for Tongan youths that were born and raised in New Zealand to see the authentic, traditional parts of our culture.

When did you join Pasifika?

Tonga has been a proud member of Pasifika Festival since the beginning and I have been Village Coordinator since 2009.

What does the community think about Pasifika?

They love the opportunity to showcase the traditions and culture of Tonga through stage performances and getting people to see and taste the Tongan way of preparing food.

Any last words?

Come and try the authentic Tongan food, and sit in front of the stage and enjoy the wonderful sounds of the brass bands. I know that you will love what Tonga can offer you.