Vibrant performance delights teams
The second flag raising ceremony for the Samoa 2019 XVI Pacific Games was a spectacle even before it officially began.
Arriving three hours before the 9.30am start on Friday to prepare for their performance at Mulinu'u, pupils entertained the guests - athletes and officials from eight competing teams - by dancing to music.
“The ceremony hasn’t even started, but they’re out here vibing with the crowd and I love it. We don’t have this back home in our country,” said Nathaniel Kalsrap of Norfolk Island.
“The culture is very beautiful. It is very vibrant and fun, I did not expect to dance with a Samoan lady on the field today but I’m having a wonderful time here,” said Trevor Gow, also of Norfolk Island.
Read more:
New Zealand was welcomed by Pu'apu'a School. (Credit: Pacific Games News Service)
Eight schools performed on each of the three flag raising ceremonies, organised by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture.
On Friday, these schools represented the following countries: Guam, Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands.
The performances attracted a local crowd, craning to get a peek.
As the students prepared to perform, the teachers and parents helped get them ready. Oil was rubbed onto their skin, lip stick was drawn onto the young girls, and their outfits were tucked in well.
“The programme was something we had to prepare for as a family. Our kids
would come home at night and rehearse in our living room every night before bed time” said proud mother of Teuila Ta’utino – Samata I Uta Primary School.
“We’re excited that Team NZ is happy with our performance” shouted the students of Pu’apu’a Primary School.
Kristy Hill, chef de mission for Team New Zealand commented, “I am very pleased with the performances by all the participating schools. It is very exciting and fun to see the young kids learning our culture. I must say I am impressed.”
The crowd had engaged with the student, cheering and singing along. “I am very proud of the students participating in the programme. I’m also glad that they have contributed to the Pacific Games 2019,” commented Sani Tivalu who admired the performances from the crowd.
