Sāmoan woman Namulau’ulu Tala Cleverley broke barriers in 1979 when she became the first Pasifika person elected to local government in Aotearoa. The trailblazing politician shares her experiences and advice for future Pasifika councillors.

When Lafoaluga Elizabeth Sakaria left Auckland to settle in Huntly last year, she expected a quieter life. Instead, she found herself stepping up as the only Pasifika candidate in the town’s local election.

With only two candidates standing in Burwood Ward, Fionna Chapman is in a head-to-head contest that could see her become the first Pasifika councillor elected to Christchurch City Council in more than 40 years.

As part of World Meningitis Day (Oct 5), the Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa has released bilingual Samoan and Tongan editions of The Meningitis Colouring Book, making the resource more accessible to Pacific families.

A Fijian collective of artists with their bold harmonies and rich storytelling of Vatu Dei, will reach new audiences this October with the release of their debut album, launched as part of Fijian Language Week 2025 and their Pasifika Artist in Residence in Palmerston North. Produced with The KaRs and Hokozoo Productions, the album celebrates

Wellington Chocolate Factory is launching a new Samoa single-origin bar, the first in a permanent Pasifika collection celebrating South Pacific cocoa farmers.