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Why is polyfest an important event?
the purpose and significance of this event The ASB Polyfest provides a traditional cultural dance experience for the Maori and Pacific Island community as well as the general public, increasing public awareness of culturally based dance art forms. It also enhances all stakeholders’ experience and objectives.
What is the history of polyfest?
The annual interschool celebration of Māori and Pasifika dance began in 1976 at Hillary College in Otara. By the 21st Century, nearly 100,000 spectators and participants attended and it was sponsored by ASB. Over the years Polyfest was covered by both the news, and specialist shows like Tagata Pasifika and Marae.
Is polyfest a competition?
In its 45th year, the annual Polyfest competition involved many schools from throughout Auckland. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the festival dates were pushed back to their original date of mid-March to the end of Term 1.
How much does polyfest cost?
Ticket Information: Entry: $5.00 ea. Pre-Schoolers: $0.00 ea ($0.00)
Who attends polyfest?
Some 9,000 students representing more than 60 schools compete in traditional speech, song and dance on six separate stages (Māori, Cook Islands, Niue, Samoan, Tongan and Diversity) while some 90,000 people attend the event.
How many people go to polyfest?
The festival routinely draws more than 100,000 people through its gates.
How many stages are there in polyfest?
The dates move to the final week of Term 1 this year and will operate four stages instead of six.
Who made polyfest?
Polyfest was first created by teachers and students at Hillary college, Otara, in 1976. It was created to showcase the students heritage and enforce pride into the students about their cultural identity.
Why do people want to go to Polyfest?
By having polyfest it gives people a chance to understand another culture other than our own. Polyfest is able to do this by having creating an environment where you are able to learn and embrace to cultures that surround you.
Where was the first school Polyfest held?
The first initial festival was held at Hillary College. The first festival for Polyfest was supported by not only students but staff and parents also. Back to this first festival, only four schools took part. Nevertheless, the establishment of the Polyfest was a big success and attracted thousands of people. the festival attracted a large audience.
Where does the welcome ceremony take place at Polyfest?
This ceremony takes place at sunrise on the raised ground overlooking the Maori Stage. This is followed by the Powhiri (official welcome), which has been the most significant part of the festival since its beginning in 1976. Traditionally, the process served to discover whether the visiting party was friend or foe.
Why is Polyfest important to Polynesian culture?
Polyfest Australia has been in search of a song that would increase the awareness of our movement to inspire, educate and unite the diverse cultures across this great nation. When the official video was released, it had all the combinations that make the Polynesian culture revered by all.