Celebrating Tongan Language Week with Disability Network
Members of Kāinga Tonga (Tongan Disability Network)
This Friday, a unique celebration will take place for Uike Kātoanga’i ‘o e Lea Faka-Tonga – Tongan Language Week.
You might call it fate, as our Tongan Disability Network events, which run monthly, in 2025 this one happens to fall during Tongan Language Week.
At Te Puke ō Tara Community Centre (Auckland) on Friday, all those who are Tongan and have a disability are welcome to join Vaka Tautua in their celebrations.
Social Services (Aiga Fiafia) Lead, Ana Lolohea, says it’ll be a display of Tongan culture for everyone to take part in.
“The idea around it, is to share our culture through cultral dances. They are people that are in our disability and age groups and are usually the attendees of our disability groups.”
“All performances are based around well-being through performance and dance.”
Throughout the day, there will be roughly 3 – 4 performances, a string band, Tongan hosts from Vaka Tautua, and of course a traditional spread.
The Vaka Tautua Auckland office is also marking the occasion in morning meetings with history and language lessons from staff with Tongan heritage.
Social Worker, Nia Tupouniua, says she’s proud to share her culture with people who might not know a lot about it.
“It’s a part of our identity, especially since we are here in New Zealand.”
“My children we’re born here (New Zealand), me I was bron in Tonga so it’s all about keeping that connection with Tonga.”
The Tongan Language Week celebration in Ōtara will start at 10:00am with a lotu and end with a performance from Vaka Tautua staff.
Lolohea would love those attending to wear their best Tongan attire to show their appreciation for their motherland.
Tupouniua is also hoping Vaka Tautua colleagues finish this week with knowledge of the meaning of ‘Loto Mafana.’
“It’s the spirit we have, a lot of people my associate it with the phrase ‘Mata Ma’a Tonga’. But it’s more that that, if you can take that Tongan spirit with you and learn new words and phrases, that’s the big thing for me.”
Event details
Tongan Disability Network: Tongan Language Week
Date: Monday 22 August 2025
Time:10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Te Puke ō Tara Community Centre (20 Newbury Street, Ōtara, Auckland 2023)
Media: If you wish to attend or have an interview request please contact Aaron Ryan – aaron.ryan@vakatautua.co.nz / 0221006951