Tongan Language Week kicks off with song and dance Featured
Waimataitai School pupils, from left, Victor Woodhouse, 10, Ilaivaha Finefeuiaki, 8, Jayden Savieti, 10, Temalisa Langi, 10, and Saia Langi, 9, perform at the school, on Monday, as part of Tongan Language Week celebrations.
4 September, 2018. Tongan Language Week kicked off with a showcase of talent at Waimataitai School on Monday morning.
The school's Tongan pupils shared their song and dance in what will be one of more than a dozen events celebrating culture and language in South Canterbury this week.
Celebrations officially got underway with a service at the Woodlands Rd Methodist Church on Sunday evening. The celebrations will culminate in a night of food and dance at the Timaru Boys' High school hall on Saturday.
Tongan Society South Canterbury president Sina Latu said the national week of celebration will also be observed with visits to 10 schools and early learning centres in Timaru.
This year's theme is about "reaching Aotearoa with love for duty and service to country, community and people", Latu said.
"It's about showing our culture, values and who we are.
"It's really for our fanau, and their friends, and for all the children to know who we are, and to share who we are so it will help them."
Tongan Society South Canterbury vice-president Sandra Malama-Tuisaulu thanked Waimataitai staff and pupils joining them at the Monday morning assembly.
"Being proud of your culture is something very special," she said.
"You being proud of your culture will encourage your friends to be proud of their culture."
Waimataitai School teacher Chrissi Davidson said the school was grateful the Tongan community got involved with the school.
"There will be engagement this week in terms of Tongan art and culture," Davidson said.
"This week also gives our Tongan children an opportunity to share their culture with their peers."
The society is inviting all to join the week's activities, especially the fiefia night at Timaru Boys' High School hall on September 8. It is free for all, although donations are welcome, and features performances, food, and dancing.
-Stuff
