Keeping Tongan traditional culture alive in Canterbury

They taught children how to perform Tongan dances and sing Tongan songs. They also taught them how to speak and write in Tongan.

These are some of the reasons why the Tongan Society South Canterbury (TSSC) in the South Island of New Zealand was established in February.

The membership is open to any ethnicities and anyone who would like to join.

Based in Timaru, the president of the organisation Sina Latu “hoped the society would help the community connect with their heritage”.

“Some came and left because of the cold weather, but some like it here because Timaru is small enough to raise children,” Latu was quoted by Timaru Herald as saying.

“We can maintain our traditions and be connected.”

“A lot of Tongans come over for rugby and bring their families.”

The executives:

President: Sina Manoa Latu

Vice President: Vai Savieti

Secretary: Pauline-Jean Luyten

Treasurers: Mary-Ellen Luyten
Sandra Sange Malama Tuisaula

About The Author

Sometimes when a business is growing, it needs a little help.

Right now Kaniva News provides a free, politically independent, bilingual news service for readers around the world that is absolutely unique. We are the largest New Zealand-based Tongan news service, and our stories reach Tongans  wherever they are round the world. But as we grow, there are increased demands on Kaniva News for translation into Tongan on our social media accounts and for the costs associated with expansion. We believe it is important for Tongans to have their own voice and for Tongans to preserve their language, customs and heritage. That is something to which we are strongly committed. That’s why we are asking you to consider sponsoring our work and helping to preserve a uniquely Tongan point of view for our readers and listeners.

spot_imgspot_imgspot_imgspot_img

Latest news

Related news