Macleans College celebrates Tongan Language Week with pride
Posted on September 18, 2025
Earlier this term Macleans College proudly celebrated Uike Kātoanga’i ‘o e Lea Faka-Tonga - Tongan Language Week.
The celebrations opened with a flag-raising ceremony, where staff and students gathered in unity to honour the school’s Tongan community. The sight of the Tongan flag flying above campus was a powerful moment of pride and strength for students.
A highlight of the week was the full school assembly, where Lisiate Taulepa (Kupe House), Katiloka Teaupa (Rutherford House) and Rose Fifita (Te Kanawa House) delivered moving speeches. Each spoke about the experience of being a young Tongan in Aotearoa New Zealand, expressing their deep connection to language, culture and heritage. Their words reminded the school community that being Tongan means upholding respect, family and identity with courage and pride.
The week carried a spirit of connection, celebration and māfana - warmth. Macleans College is proud of its Tongan students for standing tall and sharing the richness that Pacific languages and cultures bring to the school community.
Mālō ‘aupito to everyone who supported Tongan Language Week. Ofa atu.
