Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand
Open every day 10am-6pm
(except Christmas Day)
Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand
Mahu (Hawaii), Vakasalewalewa (Fiji), Palopa (Papua New Guinea), Fa’afafine (Samoa, American Samoa, Akava’ine (Cook Islands), Fakaleiti or Leiti (Tonga), Fakafifine (Niue) have been part of families from all over the Pacific for a long time. The term MVPFAFF+ was coined by Phylesha Brown-Acton, to centre and bring forward discussions that include Rainbow Pacific peoples and the terms they identify with.
The “+” symbol acknowledges that there are other Pacific Island cultures who also have terms that describe gender identities, gender expressions and sexualities. MVPFAFF+ also acknowledges that most of these traditional names do not encompass or describe lesbian or bisexual women.
Watch Phylesha Brown-Acton talk about how adornment influences her life as a Niuean woman, and the Western trope of Pasifika women being perceived and portrayed as anonymous exotic dusky maidens.
Carym Wharerau (AKA Trailblazing Founding Mother Karamera Marama) delves into the rich history of Aotearoa Ballroom and its journey from once being an underground community to stepping into the mainstream spotlight.
Artist and activist Luisa Tora shares the story of a treasured salusalu (necklace) and its intrinsic connection with her matavuvale (family).
Rex Letoa is a Sāmoan/French fa‘atama poet. A keen observer of the world around him, as well as the world inside of him. His poetry and storytelling act as a wayfinding tool back to his cultural and gender identity.
‘I, a Sāmoan gay, queer man came to know myself as not quite Pacific enough or not qwhite queer enough to be considered a central concern.’ Seuta‘afili Dr Patrick Thomsen reflects on his coming-of-age in Queen City.
Lindah Lepou talks about being a fa’faafine designer, her spirituality, and the evolution of Pacific and Māori couture.
