'We would be unstoppable' - call for more Māori and Pacific unity

Māori and Pacific academic and professionals came together to call for more Tangata Moana (Pasifika) at Māori events such as Waitangi and Matariki eve at the recent Autumn Po Talanoa (discussion).

The Moanan Podcast hosted the event which focussed on the Va (relationship) between Tangata Whenua and Tangata Moana.

Clinical psychologist  Heemi Kapakingi ( Te Aupōuri Ngāpuhi Waikato Te Whānau a Apanui) suggested that ‘showing up ‘is a way of merging together.

“Show up, share and then encourage your aiga to do the same,” says Kapakingi.

But Tangata Moana showing up for the 685 parades when Samoa qualified for the Rugby League world cup final, was something that did not sit well with Mr. Kapakingi .

“Samoa at the Rugby League World cup, 685 everywhere, Samoan flags causing massive traffic jams.

"Originally when I first saw that as a Māori, I was like why you can’t do that for our political parties and marches.

"If we were to do that together, we’d be unstoppable, “ says Kapakingi.

The Purakau  (story) of  Tangata Whenua being descendants of the Moana translates to the needed unity of Māori and Pacific.

These talks are needed to be had together as Māori and Pasifika to stand as one, says Moanan Co-founder Suelaki Tiatia.

“We are whanau, and we are called to look out for one another. Historically we have seen Māori and Pasifika advocate for one another.

“It is a relationship that should continue.”

Gen Ilolahia founded the Moanan with Mr.Tiatia . He is the son of Polynesian Panthers activist Will Ilolahia .

Mr Ilolahia who shares both Tongan and Māori heritage was unable to speak to Te Waha Nui regarding what the Va looks like today.

Watch here: Moanan founder Gen Ilolahia  hosts the first Po Talanoa of 2024.