Enrich Your Journey

In this week’s blog post, we invite you to meet Naomi Vailima, a transformative leader and passionate advocate championing the voices of the Pacific community. At the heart of the Pacific Dance NZ Festival 2025 lies the powerful showcase, "Stories About Us," which highlights the significance of heritage and contemporary Pacific narratives within our diverse culture. Discover why Naomi’s inspiring journey is one you cannot miss; her unwavering vision for increased visibility and inclusion emphasizes the vital role that Pacific stories play in fostering connection and understanding. Join us in celebrating the richness of Pacific dance through Naomi’s lens as we build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Kuramanunya by Thomas E.S. Kelly (KARUL Projects) is a powerful solo performance that honours First Nations and Ni-Vanuatu ancestors whose stories were silenced. Returning to the Pacific Dance Festival for the third time, Kelly continues his deep artistic conversation with themes of faiva, identity, kinship, and remembrance.

Following last year’s Weredingo, Kuramanunya invites audiences into a living ceremony of grief, love, and survival — where dance becomes a space for truth-telling and ancestral connection across Te Moana Nui a Kiwa.

Shapes in the Clouds by Tauveve Andy Tilo-Faiaoga is a powerful intergenerational dance-theatre piece that follows the journey of an 11-year-old superhero-in-training and his father, exploring dreams, identity, and connection across generations. Part of a dynamic Double Bill with KUINI, this family-friendly show blends dance, song, poetry, and multimedia to celebrate Pacific storytelling. A must-see for families, youth, and lovers of contemporary and cultural dance.

KUINI by Lyncia Muller is a powerful tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sālote Tupou III — Tonga’s beloved cultural matriarch. Blending tau‘olunga with contemporary dance, this work honours the Queen’s poetry, leadership, and lasting legacy. As part of a Double Bill at the Pacific Dance Festival 2025, KUINI reflects the strength of faiva, femininity, and identity — especially for Pacific peoples navigating tradition and innovation in today’s world. A must-see for those who carry culture through movement.

As we reflect on our vibrant journey in Pacific Dance, we take immense pride in celebrating 15 years of captivating performances that have brought together the rich tapestry of contemporary and heritage dance from New Zealand and across Te Moana Nui a Kiwa. From breathtaking showcases to community-driven initiatives, our festival has highlighted the enduring spirit and cultural diversity of the Pacific. Join us in commemorating this milestone with a series of special anniversary events that promise to delight and inspire, as we honor the incredible talent of Pacific dancers and the indelible mark they’ve made on our artistic landscape. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration!

“Tamaki is the globe's largest Pacific populated city and the Pacific Dance Festival pays homage to our urban stories, our people and our dances.” Iosefa Enari MNZM Festival Director.