Pacific language week celebrations continue with celebrations marking the beginning of Papua New Guinea -Tok Pisin, a language that connects more than 800 tribes and cultures across PNG and a treasured link for communities in New Zealand.
The theme is, Lukautim, strongim na kirapim tokples na pasin blo tubuna – Preserve, revitalise and promote our language and culture, reflects the community’s deep desire to pass on Tok Pisin to younger generations.
Secretary for Pacific Peoples Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone, says the week highlights the role language plays in helping communities stay connected across generations.
“For many families in New Zealand, this week carries a deep responsibility. They may be the last link connecting their children to Papua New Guinea, its language and traditions. Papua New Guinea Pidgin Language Week is a powerful way to honour that role, giving space for communities to strengthen Tok Pisin here while sharing it proudly with all New Zealanders,” says Gerardine.
Tina Woodfield, President of PNG Wantoks of Auckland Incorporated, shares how Tok Pisin continues to anchor identity while living in New Zealand.
“Being from Papua New Guinea makes me proud to come from a country that is so culturally diverse, and language is central to that. Speaking Tok Pisin has always been the norm for me, but when I moved to New Zealand, I realised how important it was to hold on to it. My family and community encouraged me to keep speaking Tok Pisin, and every time I return home, they remind me how proud they are that I still ‘sound’ like them. Tok Pisin is how we stay connected to home,” says Tina.
“This year’s celebration is especially meaningful, marking 50 years of independence and a renewed commitment to preserving tokples (language) and pasin blo tumbuna (ancestral ways)”, adds Tina.
Papua New Guinea is home to more than 875 languages, making it the most linguistically diverse country in the Pacific. In New Zealand, the community is young, multilingual, and deeply connected to its heritage.
Events throughout the week will include language workshops, cultural gatherings, and the community’s 50th independence celebrations.
“Everyone is invited to take part – whether that is learning a few Tok Pisin words, joining a community event, or connecting with the stories and voices of Papua New Guinea”, adds Gerardine.
