Waitakere library hosted a celebration of Tongan dance this afternoon when a small, but enthusiastic group was led through the basic movements of the Tau’olunga.
Participants danced to Sei o Fafine, which was composed by Queen Salote III.
Library assistant Monty Lakatani, who is of Tongan descent, said he was passionate about Tongan dance and culture, but said he wasn’t a punake (instructor).
However, he did admit to watching his three sisters, who teach dancing, very closely.
People from New Zealand, Tonga, Romania and New Guinea attended.
Among those attending was Seini Rea and her grand-daughter Isabelle.
Mrs Rea is originally from Ma’ufanga and has been in New Zealand for 44 years. She regularly returns to the kingdom and is looking forward to returning in December.
She said she had brought her granddaughter Isabelle to introduce her to the dance.
Other participants included Devah Hill-Tupou from Auckland Girls Grammar.
Kathleen Reihana said she attended on the spur of the moment after hearing an announcement.
This afternoon’s event as part of Tongan Language Week, which is being celebrated at libraries across Auckland.
Other events today included food demonstrations, traditional dance and fun family activities at Mangere and Otahuhu local libraries will host.
Te Matariki Clendon Library demonstrated how to make Otai at the Tutubugs children’s club.
Tomorrow, September 6, there will be a special Tongan story time at Manurewa Library from 10.30-11am, along with simple yoga and stretches for children.
Glen Innes Library will hold a bilingual story time with stories, songs and rhymes from 10-10.30am.
The main points
- Waitakere library hosted a celebration of Tongan dance this afternoon when a small, but enthusiastic group was led through the basic movements of the Tau’olungao.
- Participants danced to Sei o Fafine, which was composed by Queen Salote III.
For more information
Big range of free events at Auckland libraries to celebrate Tongan language week
Photos: Monty Lakatani leads the dance group at Waitakere library.
