Staff, students, families and members of the community were taken on an enchanted journey through the Pacific recently at Katikati College’s annual Pasifika Night. 

Students from Katikati Primary School and Katikati College joined together to present a polished, vibrant programme of Siva from Samoa, Tau’olunga from Tonga and dances from the Cook Islands. The intricate costumes and stage decorations amazed the crowd who enthusiastically joined in the dancing and gave generously in the Tongan tradition by placing money on the dancers.

Uliti Uilou did an outstanding job compering the evening and singing alone and with his sister Afuhia. The other Year 13 students, Eseta Pelesikoti, Honey Touhuni and Samantha Telford performed solo dances to mark their last year at the school. Taua O Falefoou Tonga’s sister Meleane ably performed a solo dance in his honour.

The Year 13 students made presentations to outgoing staff members Mrs Tina Filipo and Mr Neil Harray and acknowledged their significant contributions to the Katikati College Pasifika Community. The evening concluded with a delicious Island feast.

The evening was a true celebration of Pacific culture. The students would like to invite more members of the public to attend so look out for next year’s Pasifika Night.

Helen Willacy | ESOL Teacher