The heavy rain could not dampen the spirits of thousands of supporters who gathered to witness the final day at the Samoan stage at the 2024 ASB Polyfest held in South Auckland, New Zealand. 

The event, which showcased the culture and traditions of the Pacific Islands, saw Auckland Girls Grammar School (AGGS) dominate and sweep every category in the Samoan stage in the all-girls school division. 

“We came so far - from not knowing the moves to it being a masterpiece,” said Hinemoa Peauala, the Taupou from AGGS.

For the first time in 40 years, the AGGS Samoan group - Teine O Le Kalama took home first place in each of the categories, including Ulufale, Ulufafo, Toniga, Maululuu, Sasa, Fuataimi, Pese o le Aso, Taupou, and the Taualuga.

Peauala, a proud Year 12 AGGS student, hails from the villages of Nofoalii, Satapuala, and Faleasiu. She said she couldn't be more proud of the group of girls, especially herself, as the Taupou. 

“Performing to the crowd, I was so in love and focused on myself because of my moves and I think it really showed in my facial expressions - it just showed how much I love to dance,” said Peauala. 

The Year 13 Fuataimi, Madyzin Sao, hailing from Falealili and Salani, who also won her category, was lost for words as she acknowledged the support from her family during her preparations ahead of the Polyfest.

“It was really good, I'm just speechless. All glory back to God and the support of our family, it was such a great experience,” said Sao.

Sao also acknowledged that with events such as Polyfest, it's important that the Samoan culture is kept alive. 

Toesulu Fa'alogo Brown, a member of the Samoan stage committee who worked at AGGS as a guidance counselor and teacher from 1985 to 2015, said she was proud that an event like Polyfest can keep the culture alive today. 

"I just love it. I've seen the growth in the kids," said Toesulu

"When we started, their Samoan wasn't very good but when they are learning their speeches and their performances, they've come a long way."  

She is a strong advocate for Pasifika people in New Zealand and has been acknowledged through many awards. Her most recent award was in 2018 when she received the Samoa College Old Pupils Association (S.C.O.P.A) New Zealand's 'Lifetime Achievement Award' for her service to Samoan culture in education in New Zealand. 

She spoke about how her daughter worries about her at her age, walking around and still committing to the Polyfest.\

"Look, I will go until I can't walk up those steps," laughed Toesulu. 

Avondale College emerged as the overall winner in the co-ed division, while Kelston Boys High School was declared the winner in the boys' school division. Tamaki College was awarded the prize for the most well-behaved school.

The 2024 ASB Polyfest wrapped up on Saturday with students from different schools showcasing their knowledge and talent in Pacific Island culture. Apart from the Samoa stage, there was also a Tonga, Niue, Cook Islands, Maori and Diversity stage.  The event included several stages dedicated to showcasing the cultures of different Pacific Island nations, including Samoa, Tonga, Niue, Cook Islands, Maori, and Diversity. The Samoa stage, in particular, drew a lot of attention from the audience.