The Samoan community in Manurewa will celebrate Samoan identity and culture on Monday, 2 June 2025, at the Manurewa Samoa Celebration, hosted at the Manurewa Sports Centre, Mountfort Park. Organised by the local Samoan community with support from ASA Foundation, the event aims to strengthen connections between Pacific communities and Auckland’s local government.
Attendees will have the chance to meet Auckland City Councillor Daniel Newman, Manurewa Local Board Chair Matt Winiata, Deputy Chair Glen Murphy, and other board members. This gathering recognises the Pacific community’s growing presence in Manurewa, which now comprises nearly 40% of the population.
The program includes:
- 9:30 am: Arrival at the venue
- 10:00 am: Lotu (prayer)
- 10:15 am: Ava ceremony – led by Lupe Fofoa i Vaoese
- 11:00 am: Community meeting facilitated by the Manurewa Action Team
- 12:00 pm: Lunch and entertainment by ASA Foundation and Le Aute Manurewa Dance Academy
- 1:00 pm: Farewell
The celebration is envisioned as a launching point for regular monthly community engagements between Pacific groups and the Manurewa Local Board, to foster ongoing collaboration and participation in local government matters.
This event aligns with the recently launched Pan-Pacific Strategy for Manurewa 2025–2035, which outlines a 10-year community-led roadmap to enhance Pacific wellbeing and prosperity. The strategy, presented to the Manurewa Local Board on 8 May, prioritises community engagement, cultural identity, youth empowerment, education, housing, economic development, digital access, and support for seniors. It calls for meaningful partnerships with Auckland Council and highlights the need for targeted investment in Pacific communities.
In addition, ASA Foundation continues to lead Rewa Community Development workshops, offering residents free sessions to access funding and resources for local initiatives. These workshops, held at the Momentum Hub, Wero Whitewater Park, provide practical support to community groups.
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The Wiri Community Impact Fund, launched by the Wiri Licensing Trust, is also available to support local projects, offering grants of up to $500 for eligible groups. ASA Foundation will facilitate funding workshops to assist with applications.
For more information about the celebration or other community initiatives, contact Teleiai at (+64) 21 618 042.
