21.10.23 Communities in Aotearoa New Zealand gathered on Waitemata Rugby Club Grounds in Auckland, to celebrate their Melanesian identity.
Inaugurated in 2022, the Melanesian Festival Aotearoa is an opportunity for community members from Solomon Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu to celebrate their heritage as well as showcase their respective cultural performances, cuisines, while actively engaging with the wider community. The day’s festival included a line-up of vocal artists from Melanesia; amongst them were Fiakal, Stegga Boi and DJ Baka Solomon from the Solomon Islands.
Key sponsors for the 2023 Festival were Creative New Zealand and Pacifica Arts Centre.
Solomon Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand – H.E. Eliam Tangirongo – commended sponsors and organizers in his key address during the official opening ceremony, reinforcing the increasing need for similar cultural platforms for Melanesians in Aotearoa.
As a minority group in Aotearoa, the Melanesian diaspora has struggled to make their voices heard in political spaces. High Commissioner acknowledged the work of Melanesian advocates in Aotearoa, and urged them to keep the solidarity with the Tangata Whenua, Pasifika and other minorities that need their support. His Excellency expressed his pride in the Melanesian diaspora for their resilience, perseverance, and robust sense of community; urging them to continue to keep the spirit of Melanesia alive in Aotearoa.
The Melanesia Festival Aotearoa is envisaged to be held annually, and anticipated to grow in the coming years as more Melanesians settle, study, work and participate in seasonal labour in New Zealand.
The High Commission congratulates leadership from the Solomon Islands Auckland Wantoks Association, President Florie Dausabea, Vice-president Lazarus Loloselo and all members for hosting a successful Festival.
