BACK‘E afua mai i mauga tetele manuia o le nu’u – From the high mountains are the blessings of the village.
This beautiful proverbial expression served as the official theme for Samoan Language Week in 2026. Deeply rooted in the Samoan environment, this proverb reminds us of how our ancestors relied on the natural world, the mountains, the forests, and the oceans as the core source of sustenance, life, and blessings for the community. The word afua signifies the very beginning or core of something. At Rangitoto College, our vibrant week of celebrations proved that our small but incredibly mighty Pacific community is at the very core of our school’s cultural blessings.
Seeing the absolute joy, vibrant energy, and pride in our students throughout the week was incredibly moving, bringing our entire kura together in celebration.
To immerse our wider school community in the beautiful Samoan language, students and staff were challenged to learn and speak a new Samoan Phrase of the Day throughout the week. Our kura echoed with beautiful new sounds as everyone practiced these daily expressions:
- Tuesday: Manuia le Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa – Happy Samoan Language Week
- Wednesday: O le a lau vasega o soso’o ai? – What is your next class?
- Thursday: Ia manuia le aso – Have a good day
- Friday: Ia manuia le po – Have a good night
Our active celebrations kicked off with a fast-paced game of Lape. Similar to softball but with a distinct cultural twist; players hit the ball with their bare hands rather than a bat. Rooted deeply in Samoan community culture, Lape celebrates teamwork and connection. Our students brought their competitive spirits, massive smiles, and plenty of laughter to a truly fun-filled lunchtime.
E3 was absolutely packed to the brim for our Lolly Lei Workshop. It was an instant hit! Seeing so many students from all different backgrounds completely immersed in learning how to craft these beautiful, traditional leis was a highlight of the week. The room was buzzing with creativity, and of course, everyone thoroughly enjoyed eating their chocolates afterward!
The week culminated on Friday with a spectacular lunchtime celebration. The aroma of fresh, delicious panikekes filled the air as crowds gathered to watch our Siva group take the stage. The students performed beautifully, overcoming any pre-performance nerves to showcase the elegance, grace, and pride of Samoan culture. Standing tall in front of their peers, they represented their families and heritage with absolute dignity.
A massive thank you to all the staff, student leaders, families and our Pacific tutor class students who supported this incredibly successful Samoan Language Week!
