On Wednesday, thirteen very excited Year 13 Tongan Leaders flew to Wellington to visit Parliament and Victoria University, thanks to the continued dedication of Anahila Kanongata’a and Sepa Hausia-Schaumkel, who have organised this wonderful opportunity for our students for many years.

The students returned to school tired but full of enthusiasm for their time in Wellington. This was an incredible opportunity for students to understand the role of Parliament and how the New Zealand system of government works. They were thrilled to have been in the Speakers Gallery during question time and heard the debate, which on the day was about the cost of living crisis. So involved and incensed were they that they were desperate to add their voices to the debate and frustrated at having to sit quietly and observe. This was Parliament in action, and they loved it. 

The group was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Chris Hipkins, the Hon. Jenny Salesa - Chair of the Labour Pacific Caucus, and the Hon. Willie Jackson - Co-Chair of the Labour Māori Caucus. Lile-Rose Sinisa brought tears to many eyes when she explained how powerful it was to see people who looked like her, Pasifika and Māori, representing their communities and giving them a voice, adding how important it was to see women in positions of power.

 Students were welcomed to Victoria University by Acting Vice Chancellor Pacific, Fabie Masoe, and her team. The visit gave students an insight into life at the university and the support and opportunities available to students. While there, they learnt about our founding document. The original signed document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was found under the floorboards of the old Parliament building.

At the National Library, students were able to view the Treaty.

This truly wonderful experience is organised every year by alumna Anahila Kanongata’a and Sepa Hausia-Schaumkel. It is made possible by the generous support of many people, including Kolisi Tutuku and other Tongan Alumni, the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, Dr Linita Manu’atu, and Shaun Greaves.

Sincere thanks to everyone who gave their time and support to our very grateful students and staff.