Our Pasifika Celebration Evening saw a fantastic turnout of award recipients and their families, allowing us to come together in true Pasifika style to honour and uplift the achievements of our students.

The evening celebrated not only academic success but also the strength, perseverance, and resilience that our Pasifika students showed across academics, sports, and cultural activities. The event was a beautiful showcase of Pasifika pride, with families arriving in traditional attire and freshly made lolly-leis to honour their children's accomplishments.

The night's main Pasifika award winners included:

• L. J Tausā - Pasifika Profile Award for years of exceptional representation of the Pasifika community within and beyond Waitākere College.
• Leah McGrath - Pasifika Service to School
• Christina Pritchard - Arts and Cultural Award
• Grace Taulapapa - Komiti Pasifika Choice Award
• Epeli Taumoepeau - Top Pasifika Academic Award
• Leah McGrath - Pasifika Sportswoman of the Year
• Mahonri Schwalger - Pasifika Sportsman of the Year
  
  

We also recognized our Nu’u Toa and Fononga Parent Award winners, celebrating the commitment of Pasifika parents who dedicated their time to NCEA, literacy, and numeracy workshops throughout the year. Congratulations to Violet Va’aelua, Pule Leali’ifano, Ruta Tai, Milo Tausa, Ainette Ionatana, Bernice Ese, Violet Faitala, Ma’amu Saipele, Olesa Matangi, and Eneio Manu. Special thanks to our incredible Siaola Fononga Coordinators, Norma Sialetonga and Susan Prescott - malo aupito!

Congratulations to each of our award winners and to all our Pasifika students whose determination and spirit are a constant source of pride. You are the heartbeat of our Pasifika community here at Waitākere.

Finally, to our graduating class of 68 Year 13 Pasifika students, we wish you every success on your journey ahead. Pursue your dreams with passion, be the change in your family, and know that you will always have a home here at Waitākere College.