A new Niue documentary is helping strengthen cultural connection, identity, and belonging for Niue communities across Aotearoa.
Voices of Our Maaga, a documentary dedicated to the village of Liku Tamahaleleka, centres village narratives, intergenerational storytelling, and the lived experiences of Tagata Niue. The project is supported through the Pacific Languages Community Fund, part of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples’ priority to revitalise Pacific languages and cultural knowledge.
It forms part of a wider village-led approach that supports the recording and sharing of stories across generations, with a focus on strengthening Vagahau Niue (Niue language) use and cultural continuity.
The documentary was previewed in Tāmaki Makaurau during The Village Pathway event, giving Niue communities an early opportunity to engage with the film and see their stories reflected on screen ahead of its wider release.
The project highlights the importance of village networks in maintaining identity and connection. Across Niue, village-based approaches continue to play a vital role in cultural life, supporting the sharing of knowledge, stories, and heritage across generations.
Healthy Families Waitākere Pacific Strategic Lead, Ella Falakoa, said creating spaces where communities feel seen and valued is key to long-term wellbeing.
“When people see their stories honoured openly – through their village, their culture, and their relationships – it strengthens who they are and how they connect to others. Those connections matter; they’re what support wellbeing across a lifetime.”
The project was shaped by a steering group, village leaders, artists, performers, and volunteers, reflecting a collaborative, community-driven approach grounded in cultural knowledge and collective ownership.
Voices of Our Maaga is set to be released across Aotearoa later in 2026.
