Auckland city libraries will host a range of activities during Tongan language week, which begins next Monday, September 2.
They include children’s story telling, Tongan literature and traditional dancing.
All events are free.
Auckland is home to most of New Zealand’s Tongan population.
Monday, September 2
From 11-11.30am, Te Matariki Clendon Library in Manukau will host Tongan story time in partnership with Sia Mo’ui – Finlayson Park school’s Tongan unit.
On the same day Mangare Town Centre Library will host a Wriggle and Rhyme session incorporating Tongan songs for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Tuesday, September 3
Te Matariki Clendon Library in Manukau will offer a session on making Tapa a with its Tutubugs children’s club from 3.30-4.30pm.
Also on Tuesday, Mangare Town Centre Library will hold a special after-school programme for students focusing on Tongan language and crafts.
Wednesday, September 4
Te Matariki Clendon Library will hold a Tongan-themed treasure hunt at the Tutubugs children’s club from 3.30-4.30pm.
Thursday, September 5
Mangare Town Centre Library’s special guest Susana Vunipola will share some of her favourite Tongan children’s stories. She will also teach about Tongan ceremonial dancing. This session will run from 10.30-11am.
On the same day there will be a demonstration of Tau’olunga, a traditional Tongan dance, at the Waitakere library in Henderson from 3.30-5pm.
Next Thursday Mangere and Otahuhu local libraries will host food demonstrations, traditional dance and fun family activities from 4-8pm.
Te Matariki Clendon Library will show how to make Otai at the Tutubugs children’s club from 3.30-4.30pm.
Friday, September 6
There will be a special Tongan story time at Manurewa Library from 10.30-11am, along with simple yoga and stretches for children.
Glen Innes Library will hold a bilingual story time with stories, songs and rhymes from 10-10.30am.
The main points
- Auckland city libraries will host a range of activities during Tongan language week, which begins on Monday, September 2.
- They include children’s story telling, Tongan literature and traditional dancing.
For more information
Tongan language week at Auckland libraries
