One of the year’s finest events is returning.
Auckland Pasifika Festival is back for its 2021 edition, and is getting ready to provide a vibrant celebration of pacific island culture in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. [Featured Image: Gareth Cooke/Subzero Images].
Attendees can weave their way through the festival villages over the course of two days, getting lost in the activities presented by the cultures of nine different pacific islands.
On the top of many people’s list, quite rightly, will be going on a mission to try as much of the different culinary delights on offer at Auckland Pasifika Festival. Gorge on some Hawaiin Kālua Pig, or treat yourself to some cooling watermelon and ice cream after experiencing the spicy marinated chicken dishes from Fiji. And that’s barely even scratching the surface! If you can at least get a small taster of dishes from all nine pacific islands here at the festival, your stomach will definitely thank you!
On top of the spectacular cuisine, you’ll find many an exciting live performance over the course of the weekend. Shows include those from Brotherhood Musiq, Seth Haapu and Lavina Williams. The NZ Opera will be joined by Tim Finn, Amitai Pati and Natasha Wilson members of the cast of Ihitai’Avei’A – Star Navigator, for a special performance.
And, if all that wasn’t enough, you’ll be treated to soothing sounds from the Pacific youth choir and orchestra, Sistema Aotearoa, who are performing on the Saturday of the festival before the legendary artist, Fiji, wraps up the festival on Sunday afternoon.
Elsewhere across the event, there will be storytelling, fine arts, crafts, and market stalls. Plus, those who are suckers for a good light show — let’s be honest, who isn’t? — won’t leave the event disappointed after Auckland Harbour Bridge is lit up with Vector Lights to celebrate the event.
Auckland Pasifika Festival takes place at Western Springs Park on Saturday, March 13 from 9am-8pm, and Sunday, March 14 from 10am-4pm. Entrance is completely free. Head to the Auckland NZ site for more details.