Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
The opening ceremony kicked off the 2023 Pacific Games in Solomon Islands last night.
The Solomon Islands National Stadium in Honiara was the place to be last night, as the 2023 Pacific Games opening ceremony took place to kickstart the two week festivities.
The event which takes place every four years is currently hosted this year in Solomon Islands with an estimated 5000 athletes and officials competing in 24 sports.
Crowds who were present at the stadium and viewers across the world who tuned in were treated to cultural performances from each of the teams as they graced the field during the opening ceremony parade.
The opening ceremony was also a chance for a lot of people to witness for the first time the new $NZ75.9 million national stadium.
Earlier in the week, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare spoke on how much hosting this year’s games meant for Solomon Islands as a nation.
“Nation building is our individual and collective calling,” he told an audience in the capital, Honiara, this week ahead of Sunday’s opening ceremony.
“Together we can move mountains. We are one people, we are one nation, we are Solomon Islands, to God be the glory, great things he has done.
“Let’s get it on.”
