Tongan Language Week, Uike Kātoanga'i 'o e Lea Faka-Tonga was officially opened at a ceremony at the Lesieli Tonga auditorium in Mangere on Sunday.

Uike Kātoanga'i 'o e Lea Faka-Tonga celebrates the culture and language of the more than 82,000 people of Tongan descent who live in New Zealand. This year’s theme is 'E tu'uloa 'a e lea faka-Tongá 'o ka lea'aki 'i 'api, siasí (lotú), mo e nofo-'a-kāingá. It focuses on the importance of using Lea Faka-Tonga as much as possible at home, church, and in the community. When you are proud of your language and can speak it, you will be more grounded in your identity as a Tongan and the language will be sustainable.

OHS was one of 15 schools invited to participate in the opening prayer service at the Lesieli Tonga auditorium. Our students sang a beautiful song led by Moana Taufahema, Year 10 and Garcinia Tuakalau, Year 12.

A full week of activities has been planned for students. A traditional Kava ceremony will be held to open the celebrations at school. The week will feature performances, games and food for all to enjoy.

Thank you to Mrs. Lute Langi, the Tongan Language students, and the Cultural Council for their efforts in developing the programme for this week.