In its 49th year, the ASB Polyfest, one of the world’s largest Maori and Pacific Island Festival, started with a special flag-raising ceremony, followed by a mass haka powhiri.
Soon after the Manukau Sports Bowl came alive with the vibrant colours and culture, with 239 school groups taking to the festival’s six stages during the festival’s four-day duration.
The festival’s inaugural ceremony kicked off with deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters along with other ministers including Paul Goldsmith, Dr Shane Reti and Tama Potaka making an appearance.
With more than 8000 students participating, applauding, and cheering, the event ended with the World Boxing Organisations’ interim heavyweight titleholder, Joseph Parker inspiring young Polynesian men and women to give back to the community.
