Pacific Day celebrates culture, community and connection
Close to 200 ākonga (students) and kaimahi (staff) came together on Tuesday, 3 March, to celebrate Unitec Pacific Day 2026 at the Fale on Mt Albert Campus.
The free event transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of Pacific culture, filled with live music, delicious island food, interactive stalls, games, and cultural workshops.
It was a celebration of Pacific excellence, identity, and community — values deeply woven into the fabric of our provider.
One of the day’s highlights was the ever-popular Great Pacific Quiz and Great Pacific Games, which drew enthusiastic participation from students competing for over $1,000 worth of prizes.
Event Coordinator and Pacific Learning Advisor Venusi Taumoepeau reflected on the impact of the event:
“This is the third year we have run this event and again it was another highly engaged experience for our students and staff who attended.
We ran a number of activities that connected them to the diverse Pacific cultures represented on campus and how we serve our learners.”
The day opened with a prayer led by Student Experience Partner Tu Nu’uali’itia, followed by a heartfelt tribute and minute of silence honouring former long-serving Pacific kaimahi Lance Laulala and Sose Uputaua-Maea.
A traditional Fijian kava ceremony followed, led by Automotive Senior Lecturer Jone Tawaketini and the Bula community, before celebrations moved outdoors.
Proceedings were then handed to MC Ma’a Brian Sagala — a Unitec acting alumnus and respected entertainer — whose energy and pride carried the event through the day.
Outside, the grass area beside the Fale buzzed with activity. The Great Pacific Games ran alongside a garland workshop led by Learning Development Lecturer Janet Tawaketini, while steady queues formed at the Taste of the Pacific food stall.
Traditional island favourites, including Cook Islands poke (banana and coconut cream dessert) and palusami pies (taro leaves in coconut cream), were served by Blue Rose Cafe.
Mr Taumoepeau acknowledged the collective effort behind the event’s success.
“From the early setup of stalls to manning activities, to packing up at the end — every contribution mattered.
“Our amazing MC Brian Sagala guided us with energy and pride throughout the day. Most of all, to every student who participated — this day was created by you and for you. Malo lava!”
Unitec Pacific Day 2026 once again demonstrated the power of community, culture, and connection — a celebration not just of heritage, but of the vibrant Pacific presence shaping the future of our institution.
