Pasifika Celebration Dinner

Avondale College’s Year 13 Pasifika Celebration Dinner was a wonderful evening dedicated to recognising and celebrating the success of our senior Pasifika students. Families, friends, and staff gathered to honour the hard work, resilience, and achievements of the graduating class.

Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner of Pasifika food, while the programme featured Pasifika performances and inspiring addresses from special guest speakers: alumna Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific at the University of Auckland, and Hon. Carmel Sepuloni, MP for Kelston. Their words of encouragement and wisdom were a highlight of the evening.

The event also marked the presentation of the inaugural Mauga Family Award, recognising students who have consistently served at Avondale College’s Pasifika events and programmes for three years or more. Recipients of the Mauga Family Cup were celebrated for upholding both the school’s HEART values and key Pasifika values of respect, love, and service throughout their journey at Avondale.

Congratulations to Nick Hanipale and Apiisaloma Mauga, the first award recipients.

The evening was skilfully MC’d by alumnus and former Head Boy Matthew Manukuo, whose warmth and humour added to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, it was a memorable night of pride, connection, and culture as we farewelled our Year 13 Pasifika students and wished them every success for the future.