Pasifika Advisory Committee

This was the first of many events planned for the year to acknowledge and celebrate cultural diversity at King's College. 

Building collaborative relationships between students, the College and family is key to a positive and successful school experience. Similar to the Māori values of Te Whare Tapa Wha, the Fonofale Pasifika model is a visual representation of Pasifika values and beliefs. The Fonofale model is composed of three main elements: the foundation, the roof, and the posts. In order to build a house, you must start with the foundation and build from the ground up. In the Fonofale model, the foundation is the family. This foundation represents the core values and beliefs of Pasifika Peoples such as the importance of family, respect for elders, and a strong connection to the environment. 

The day started off with the sound of Cook Islands drumming resonating throughout the school as Pasifika families arrived for the event. It was then followed by introductions to the Pasifika Advisory Committee made up of parents and staff who will work in collaboration with the school on initiatives to support and enhance Pasifika students' achievement and school experience. It was heart-warming to hear from the Māori and Pasifika Student Panel as they introduced themselves in the various languages they speak - oratory is a big part of Pasifika culture. They expressed their gratitude to all who attended to show their support. The rest of the day was full of food, music and delicious Tupu’anga coffee served from the Affirming Works Community Cafe Food Truck. 

King's College continues to develop relationships with the Pasifika community to strengthen and build a strong foundation upon which our Pasifika students can prosper.

The next Pasifika event will be the Fiafia night held on the evening of Thursday 1 June during Samoan Language Week.

Malo ‘Aupito

Loata Mahe

Teacher of Music andPasifika Student Leadership Advisor