Samoan Language Week (Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa): Oamaru Pacific Island Trust (OPIT) brought legends, history, screen printing, and traditional food to its cultural programme, with kids and families trying “valu le popo” coconut scraping and dishes like pani popo, koko Samoa, sapasui and fa’alifu taro. Community Libraries & Pacific Languages: Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson marked the end of the week at Manurewa Library, saying public libraries help others understand Samoan language and culture, not just celebrate within the community. Pacific Dance Festival 2026: The festival opened in Māngere with a big line-up across venues, featuring artists from Papua New Guinea, Wallis and Futuna, Rotuma, and Niue, alongside Uvea choreographer Justin Haiu’s “Call to Wallis.” Niue Connection in the Arts: Fiji-American artist support is boosting a Niue youth mural initiative, adding fresh momentum to local creative projects. King’s Birthday Honours (Pasifika recognition): Twelve Pasifika people in New Zealand were recognised, led by Olympian Beatrice Faumuinā for sport and governance, with other honours spanning education, community service, and the arts. Public Service Spotlight: Police inspector Neru Leifi received an MNZM, sharing his long career and mentoring police in Niue.