Pasifika Speech & Languages Competition in the Bay
Celebrating Pasifika Voices, Language and Culture
Tauranga, Bay of Plenty – The Pasifika In the Bay Trust proudly announces the return of the Pasifika Speech & Languages Competition in the Bay for 2025. This signature event continues to shine as a transformative platform for Pasifika secondary school students, providing an opportunity to celebrate cultural identity, enhance public speaking skills, and earn valuable NCEA credits.
This year’s event will take place on Thursday, 14 August 2025, at 10:00 AM at St Peter’s in the City, Tauranga, bringing together students, families, educators, and the wider community in a vibrant celebration of Pasifika excellence.
A Platform for Language, Leadership, and Learning
The competition is more than a public speaking event—it is an educational and cultural milestone. Students from Years 9 to 13 will deliver speeches in both English and indigenous Pacific languages, including Samoan, Tongan, Kiribati, Fijian, Cook Islands Māori, Tokelauan, and Hawaiian.
For the first time, Tokelau and Hawaii will be represented, marking a significant milestone in the competition’s history. This expansion reflects the Trust’s commitment to language preservation and intergenerational cultural exchange.
By integrating this event into the school calendar, Pasifika In the Bay supports New Zealand’s educational goals while empowering Pasifika youth to speak confidently, think critically, and connect deeply to their heritage.
2025 Stats & Facts
This year’s event highlights just how much the competition has grown:
| Category | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Students | 56 | Registered across Years 9–13 |
| English Speakers | 34 | Delivering speeches in English |
| Pacific Language Speakers | 22 | Presenting in indigenous Pacific languages |
| Languages Represented | 7 | Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, Fiji, Cook Islands Māori, Tokelau, Hawaii |
| First-Time Languages | 2 | Tokelau & Hawaii debut |
Why It Matters
For students, this competition is an educational accelerator and a cultural stage. They are not only assessed for NCEA but also gain real-world skills in communication, leadership, and bilingual presentation.
For parents and educators, it is an opportunity to:
- Strengthen cultural identity in young people
- Promote academic excellence through authentic learning experiences
- Celebrate linguistic diversity within the school community
For the wider community, it is a living example of Pasifika pride and unity in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
Be Part of the Celebration
Date: Thursday, 14 August 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: St Peter’s in the City, 130 Spring Street, Tauranga
The 2025 Pasifika Speech & Languages Competition in the Bay is open to the public – a chance to hear the inspiring voices of our youth as they honour the languages and stories of the Pacific.
Join Us. Support Us. Celebrate With Us.
Follow Pasifika In the Bay on Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and highlights from the 2025 competition.
