20 years of celebrating pasifika excellence at the Pacific Music Awards, we follow our host Diamond Langi as she fills us in on all our favourite artists that graced the blue carpet at the Vodafone Pacific Music Awards.

The choral sounds of Pasifika echoed onstage at The Big Sing 2024! 🌺 Many Pasifika folk songs were among the beautiful arrangements at the annual New Zealand regional choral festival. Check out some of the schools that competed here! - Avondale College {{37689}} Dilworth School {{37687}} King's College {{37691}} Manurewa High School {{37686}} Southland Girls' High School {{37690}} Waikato Diocesan School for Girls {{37688}} Wellington East Girls' College {{37685}}

Echoes of our ancestors reverberated through the Auckland Town Hall as our community graced the Pacific Spirit Concert stage, their voices and rhythms bringing our mother tongues to life! A moment of pure magic, where the islands of the Pacific united in harmonious song and danced to the vibrant beat of the lali, celebrating the rich tapestry of our heritage.

We keep it fresh with Te Ao Hou. A devised physical theatre production brought to life by a collective of emerging artists, co-directed by Margaret-Mary Hollins and Hone Taukiri. ‘Te Ao Hou’ dares to imagine a world without boundaries and poses the question of who we could be, if we free our imagination.

Red, White & Brass the movie spins a creative tail and takes centre stage as a play. The story of Maka, a young Tongan rugby obsessed fanatic who gets a brass band together for the sole purpose of watching Tonga take on France at the 2011 Wellington Rugby World Cup. We follow the cast and crew for exclusive behind the scenes footage into Tongan humour, discipline and māfana.

For those of you that couldnt attend the AMA's, don't worry, our very own Gigi has got us covered with all the inclusive interviews & insights from the night! A night of celebrating Aotearoa's musicians and all the amazing jams they keep releasing, cause lets be real, morning drives to work would be so boring without our local talents.

Papua New Guinea Hip Hop dance crew, Wan Squad, have claimed gold at the 2024 World Hip Hop Dance Championship! 🇵🇬 Known to be the biggest hip hop dance competition in the world, over 3,500 dancers representing 55 countries competed in Phoenix, Arizona for Gold, Silver, and Bronze and the title of World Champion at the 2024 World Hip Hop Dance Championship. Wan Squad came away with the win in the Adult Crew category, and was the only crew from the Pacific region to take home a medal. Check out their Finals performance here!

We kept it fresh at the Smokefree Tangata Beats Auckland Regional Finals - a live, original music, youth event that recognises and reflects the unique cultural identity of Aotearoa and the South Pacific. Results: 1st Place: Top Shelf - Manurewa High School 2nd Place: Mystery - Alfriston College 3rd Place: TC Senior Band - Tamaki College 1st place solo-duo: Frida & Litia - Southern Cross Campus 2nd place solo-duo: Therese and Christian - Alfriston College Smokefree Best Vocal: Male Vocalist of TC Senior Band from Tamaki College Musicianship (jointly awarded to): Bassist of SC Collective - Southern Cross College Musicianship (jointly awarded to): Lead Guitarist - Top Shelf of Manurewa High School APRA Lyric Writers Award: Charlie Miller from Manurewa High School NZ Music Commission Best Song Award: TC Senior Band from Tamaki College Te Reo Award: Diamond from Aorere College Smokefree Mana Wahine Award: Vocalists of Mystery from Alfriston College

Join the cast and crew of 'Love; Mum'! Five mothers who meet at Mothers Anonymous navigate friendship and motherhood in this spectacular piece of Pacific theatre in Christchurch 🎭🌺 - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows.

Come along with us to 'Ciggy Butts In The Sand'! A choreographed response by Tupua Tigafua and production company Le Moana Arts to the environment through the eyes of a child. A child who experiences the life force of nature in all its wonder🌿🌺 - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows

Projekt Feel Good getting the place to be for youth and community to together and get to experience learning from professional guests. Hip hop your way around this epic segment! 🕺🏽🎶 - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows

Kanaka Maoli singer Kamalei Kawa'a performs Bob Marley & The Wailers' "No Woman, No Cry" during The Voice Playoffs. Check out the amazing, stripped back performance here!

Strictly Brown presents 'Pring It On', which follows the life of Penina, a NZ-Born Samoan who auditions for the Samoan Cultural Group that's set straight in their Traditional ways. Penina fights against the status quo, takes on the head leader and finds herself in the middle of an incomplete love triangle. Penina sets out on a journey of self discovery, makes peace with her hypocritical mother and helps her Samoan group break out of their Traditionalist ways.

Marking their 10th year anniversary, Sau E Siva Creatives present their Pasifika theatre show "Manamea". With a sold-out season, we go backstage to meet the cast and hear about the journey of the incredible show. UPDATE: Sau E Siva Creatives have recently announced season 2 of Manamea! So if you missed out the first time, get tickets to the show here! 

It's going down this weekend at the Manukau Sports Bowl for the biggest festival of it's kind! The students have been dripping blood, sweat and tears for one of the biggest event of the high school calendar! LEESSSSHGO! Visit the Official ASB Polyfest website for the links to all stages...

"I felt very proud to represent Samoa. Being able to see all the other nations of the Commonwealth was just an awesome experience." With hearts filled with pride, Opera singers Isabella Moore and Benson Wilson delivered a mesmerising rendition of the timeless Samoan classic, 'Tofa My Feleni' at the Commonwealth Day service held at at Westminster Abbey. Through their performance, they epitomised the Commonwealth values of inclusivity, respect, and harmony that bind us together as a global community. Learn more about the couple and their story as they share it with us here! 🔗

Kamalei Kawa'a performs Bob Marley & The Wailers' "Redemption Song" during The Voice Blind Auditions.

Fierce, furious, and fabulously unforgiving, award-winning writer Tusiata Avia's play 'Savage Coloniser' is hitting stages around Aotearoa and the world in 2024. Red-sequinned dusky maidens train their sights on James Cook, Samoan school girls play an innocent game of patty-cake as they describe the atrocities on Nauru, and a Tour Guide offers instructions on how to be in a room full of white people. Following on from the internationally triumphant production of her play 'Wild Dogs Under My Skirt', FCC theatre company brings to ferocious life the acclaimed writer’s The Savage Coloniser Book, for which she became the first female Pasifika poet to take out the Ockham Award for poetry. Under the direction of award-winning Samoan director Anapela Polata’ivao, Avia’s unapologetic examination of race and racism is full of bold humour, courage, and lacerating truths: The Savage Coloniser Show is theatre that is as provocative as it is necessary “With characteristic savage and stylish wit, Avia holds the word-blade to our necks and presses with a relentless grace. At the end, you’ll feel your pulse anew.” - Selina Tusitala Marsh, NZ Poet Laureate Tickets for the Wellington season of the show as part of the Aotearoa Festival of the Arts 2024 are available here.

When Pasifika culture and Heavy Metal connect, you get Shepherds Reign 🇼🇸🤝🎸

 Unique by nature, their authenticity stems from their lived experiences, their roots and their culture, Shepherds Reign showcase a different side to their music, performing acoustic renditions at BIG FAN NZ Set list includes ‘AIGA’, ‘FINALLY’ and ‘LE MANU’.

For the last 8 weeks our CoconetTV Digital Producer Faivaeselopepe Anric Sitanilei, has been joining with a cast and crew of nearly 75 young people learning, practising, singing and dancing as part of Sau E Siva Creatives latest production 'Manamea'. 'Manamea', meaning sweetheart in Samoan, is the title of Sau e Siva Creatives newest dance theatre show, marking their 10-year anniversary. Faivaeselopepe takes us behind the scenes as the team rehearse for the last few times leading up to their preview show on Wednesday 8th November and their opening night on Thursday 9th November. Congratulations to the founders, creative directors and choreographers of Sau E Siva Creatives - Troy Tu'ua, Idalene Ati, Italia Hunt, Leki Jackson-Bourke and Bob Epine Savea - on the 10 years of Pacific Excellence your shows have produced!

Coco Congrats to Samoan dancer John 'Happy Feet' Vaifale who represented New Zealand at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals in Frankfurt, Germany! Happy Feet and finalist crew 'STILL UNDERGROUND' won the Dance Your Style 'Build a Team' Battles; and although he didn't crack the Top 8 Finalists, his electrifying performance left a lasting impression and made the NZ dance community proud 🇼🇸👟🌸 Here's a snippet from his dance battle against Nigerian finalist, King DaVinci 🇳🇬

A group of talented young dancers from across Wellington, featuring Pacific Island girls, have taken the world stage by storm as they clinched victory in the Hip Hop Unite World Championship in Portugal. NOVA, comprising 18 members aged between nine and 13, represented New Zealand at the championships in the Cadet Megacrew category. Their remarkable journey to the world championship victory was a story filled with determination, community support, and unforgettable moments. The journey for these young dancers began with a significant fundraising effort. Each dancer needed to raise $10,000 for the trip, making the total cost an estimated $200,000. They organised various events and created a Givealittle page that garnered over $12,000 in donations.  The decision to participate in the championship wasn't taken lightly, as the group had previously qualified but opted not to attend due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of the trip. {{35780}} Their journey was far from easy, marked by rigorous training, financial challenges, and a steadfast commitment to their dreams. Under the guidance of their coach, Myah Miranda, who had herself competed at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships, the dancers aimed for excellence. With dedication and perseverance, NOVA turned their dreams into reality. They overcame financial obstacles, secured community support, and dedicated themselves to perfecting their routine. {{35779}} The hard work and resilience paying off as they emerged victorious in Portugal, becoming World Champions in the process.

Tongan pop singer Dinah Jane with this powerful rendition of the USA national anthem at Game 5 of the MLB World Series. That time she sang the Tongan national anthem at the Rugby League World Cup semi final in 2017 tho!   {{35777}}

Music festival season is kicking off and who better than Tongan actor JP Foliaki to take us backstage at Eden Festival to get things started!🎶🌸 - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows.

The village that is the Siva Mai Club presents an epic showcase of dancing, singing, and stories from their own backyards, delivering a Polynesian extravaganza like none other!🇦🇺🌸

Fijian/Samoan vocalist Ezra Williams stunned the judges and crowd at The Voice Australia 2023 Grand Finale! The Finale opened with a joint performance by all four finalists, performing a rendition of 'I Am Free' by Australia singer-songwriter Tones & I. {{34934}} Later on in the show, Ezra took to the stage with her mentor and coach Jessica Mauboy, together singing a unique performance of Harry Style's 'As It Was.' {{34935}} Later taking to stage once more and upping the tempo of the night, performing 'Don't Go Yet' by Camila Cabello! {{34936}} While Ezra Williams was a fan favourite throughout the entire series, Coach Rita Ora's finalist Tarryn Stokes took the win and was crowned. Stream Ezra's latest single, 'Mistakes' now! {{34937}}

Twenty six years old and Tangata Beats is back for another year baaby!! 🥳 More bands, more music! Meet the groups that have worked hard to make it out to the National Finals in hopes of walking away with the win! 🎶🌺

Another epic line-up of your favourite Pasifika artists alongside your fave international artists drew thousands to the Gold Coast for Promiseland 2023. The first night was headlined by Nigerian, US born afrobeats artist Davido and the 2nd night was headlined by the one & only Ms Lauryn Hill on her 'Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 25 year anniversary tour'. Check out more of the lineup here. We talked to co-founder of Promiseland, Bernard Kumar about his inspiration for starting the festival plus many of our Pasifika artists who featured over the weekend. -  Public Interest Journalism funded by NZ on Air 

Tongan/Samoan singer DeAngelo Talakai (artist name Talakai) has gone viral after John Legend turned for his blind audition on The Voice. The 34 year old singer turned both John Legend and Reba McEntires chairs but it wasn't only his voice that had him receiving compliments - his likeness to judge and singer John Legend was noticed straight away. “It’s a taller and more handsome version of myself on stage,” joked Legend.

"I'm glad that they felt me, that they felt the song ... that's what counts" CHATS WITH RADZ!  We caught up with the gorgeous Aaradhna at Promiseland after she opened Day 2. She talks about her Promiseland experience, new music and more with us here… Thank you Radzy ❤️

Keeping it Fresh at ""Whats The Difference? 685 To The World” Get to know the characters on and off the theatre floor, hear their thoughts about Samoa born Samoans and Kiwi born Samoans, What's the difference? 685 to the world - Samoa mo Samoa! 🇼🇸🌺

Aaradhna has recently released a spoken word poetry piece, simply titled, "Aaradhna" "She's never afraid to walk alone, She doesn't need to be held, She is never scared, She gives me strength, Strength" Portraying a journey of self-discovery and empowerment and navigating the space between two worlds, Aaradhna delves into the emotions of longing, fear, courage, and the profound connection to one's inner strength and ancestral heritage.

Ezra Williams (Samoan/Fijian), aka Razé, is our last Pasifika contestant remaining in the ongoing season of The Voice Australia! She was the first Grand Finalist to be announced, when Coach Jessica Mauboy chose her Semi-Finals performance over fellow Pasifika contestant, Samoan crooner David Aumua. David Aumua became a fan favourite this season after impressing the judges and crowd alike with powerful performances time and time again. For the Semi-Finals, he performed a soulful rendition of Jason Mraz's 'I Won't Give Up.' {{34861}} and here's where Coach Jessica Mauboy made the tough decision of who she wanted to take through to the Grand Finale {{34862}} Ezra Williams now goes up against the Grand Finalists of the other three teams, who will each perform an original single in the 2023 The Voice Australia Grand Finale! The Voice Australia 2023 Grand Finalists: Team Jess - Ezra Williams Team Rita - Tarryn Stokes Team Jason - Ethan Beckton Team Guy - Charlie Pittman

Two of our Pasifika artists David Aumua (Samoan) and Ezra Williams (Samoan/Fijian) have made it through the Battle Rounds of the Voice AU and into the Semi Final!   On Sunday both Rita Ora and Jessica Mauboy's teams of 6 went into battle to gain a spot in the Semi Final. One artist from each team received a Semi Final Fast Pass, while one more secured their spot after a sing-off in front of their coaches. David Aumua secured a Fast Pass from Coach Jess while Ezra battled Dillon and then had to sing for her life in a showdown with Shyjana. {{34751}} - {{34752}} Unfortunately for Giaan Jordan (Torres Strait Island heritage) her time at The Voice AU came to an end, but the young star was praised for continuing her Battle after momentarily forgetting the words to Justin Bieber’s Hold On. Watch her battle with Shyjana below -  {{34753}}

We're Keepin It Fresh at the 2023 Pacific Music Awards! Host Seluvaia walks the red (or blue 🤨) carpet at the PMA's, talking to nominees and supporters, serving looks and more importantly, kava! 🥥🌺 - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows.

Beautiful opera sung in Samoan hits New Zealand stages! NZ Opera and Black Grace collab in this extraordinary first time operatic version of '(m)Orpheus' - A Greek tragedy set to Samoan lyrics and dance. Watch this all-star Pasifika cast tell this beautiful classic story in the language of their ancestors, with three Samoan opera singing brothers taking the stage together.

Trisha Godinet showcases her vocal prowess as she delivers her rendition of the iconic 'At Last' by Etta James during her Blind Audition on The Voice Australia, leaving all four judges as well as the audience captivated by her performance. Godinet joins to the growing list of Pasifika contestants in this year's season of The Voice AU 🌺🎶

Two more Pasifika singers advance past the Blind Auditions stage of this year's season of The Voice Australia, adding to the growing list of Pasifika contestants in what looks to be an absolutely stacked season 🎤 Marley Sola Samoan/Māori singer Marley Sola left all four judges stunned when he auditioned with Stevie Wonder's 'Ribbon In The Sky.' {{34297}} Originally from Ōtautahi/Christchurch, Marley Sola won the '531pi Best Pacific Gospel Artist' at the 2021 Pacific Music Awards with his song 'Lift Your Head High': {{34296}} Giaan Jordan 17-year old Torres Strait Islander Giaan Jordan impressed the judges with a rendition of Cyndi Lauper classic, 'True Colours.' Despite showing visual nerves, she managed to turn three chairs in coaches Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy and Rita Ora. {{34298}} - UPDATE! Trisha Godinet also made it through the Blind Auditions stage, you can find her audition here.

Tala Pasifika Productions presents 'Takurua: Ti'iti'i Sacred Knowledge. Takurua tells the tale of Ti’iti’i-Atalaga (a contemporary of Māui from Māori legend), a rebellious trickster and hero of the Pacific, alongside a five-course banquet created by Kingi’s acclaimed Chef de Cuisine Wallace Mua. Takurua Ti'iti'i Sacred Knowledge builds upon the success of last year’s sold out Nafanua War Goddess show and is a celebration of indigenous practices in food, dance and storytelling. - We also sit down with Chef Wallace (Uelese) Mua who took us into his world of culinary arts.

Ia Orana from the beautiful island of French Polynesia, Tahiti! We're with Orero performer Hiriata Brotherson as she talks us through what it means to perform at Heiva with her group, Manohiva and their journey to the stage! 🇵🇫🌺 See the beauty of all things Tahitian dancing! Catch all the beautiful Tane and Vahine as they represent their culture and tell their stories through movement.