NZ Tongans to dance at 2017 ASB Polyfest next week [1]
Friday, March 10, 2017 - 19:35. Updated on Friday, March 10, 2017 - 19:59.
Students of Tongan heritage from dozens of high schools in Auckland are preparing to perform their Tongan dances at the 2017 ASB Polyfest in Auckland.
The annual Polyfest is one of Auckland's most popular venues with last year's Polyfest attracting over 80,000 spectators and featuring performances from over 9,000 students.
The 2017 Polyfest will run from March 15-18 at the Manukau Sports Bowl and will feature six stages: Tongan Stage, Maori Stage, Samoan Stage, Cook Island Stage, Niuean Stage and a Diversity stage.
The Tongan Stage from March 16-17 will present all Tongan dances including the Lakalaka, Tau'olunga, Mau'ulu'ulu, and Kailao.
The Polyfest is not exlusive to Pacific Islanders. A Diversity Stage displays the cultures of various ethnic communities in Auckland such as Chinese, Indians, Filipinos and others.