Polyfest 2018 kicks off in Auckland

  • 14/03/2018
More than 10,000 students will take the stage over the next four days.
More than 10,000 students will take the stage over the next four days. Photo credit: Polyfest 2017 / Facebook

Polyfest is kicking off on Wednesday morning with the biggest event in its 43-year history.

More than 10,000 students will take the stage over the next four days, with 242 groups from 69 schools.

Minister for Pacific People, Aupito William Sio, says he's proud to be attending the powhiri and flag raising this morning.

"Hundreds and thousands of people will come out to watch the performances, watch our young people deliver something that is fantastic, that is out of the ordinary and be proud of it," he says.

Sio says it's the most significant cultural event in the Southern Hemisphere.

"It's an opportunity to recognise the richness of te reo Māori and Pacific languages and culture, its history and people as a thing to be valued in Aotearoa New Zealand," he says.

"It's also a boost of confidence in our young people."

Newshub.