It’s Niue Language Week
This year’s theme for Niue Language Week | Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue is “Fakatapunu, Ofania, mo e Fakaaoga e Vagahau Niue!” - elevate, cherish, and use Vagahau Niue!
AUT Bachelor of Communication Studies alumnus and Year 13 Dean at Southern Cross Campus,Vilimotu Waizu Fohetapu Fakalanu, shares his journey with the Niuean language and how it connects him to his culture and identity.
“My language knew me before I was born because it is who I am. It’s where I come from and my connection to the sea. Without the Niuean language, you could argue that I am no one.
“I have no excuse but to sustain my language not only for our current generation but the generations to come. For anyone who is looking at learning the language I think it’s just stepping out of your comfort zone and making an effort and making an effort to learn the language and then applying it to everyday conversations. It starts with taking a small step, and this is mine.”
AUT’s Pacific language videos are a celebration of the power of language and culture featuring our Pacific staff, students and alumni who are sharing their experiences and journey with sustaining their heritage language. They are all passionate about sustaining languages for future generations.
Niuean greetings and other resources for Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue – Niue Language Week, including email signatures and printable posters, are available on the website of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples.
Upcoming Pacific language weeks in 2025
- Tokelau Language Week: 26 October – 1 November
- Solomon Islands Pidgin Language Week: 23 - 29 November