Polyfest - A Powerful Vehicle for Movement
Students from Te Kura o Mataura showcased their talents at the 2023 Murihiku Polyfest, one of the standout events celebrating cultural diversity and youth expression in Southland.
“Culture,” “fun,” and “family” are the words most commonly associated with Polyfest by southern rangatahi (youth). However, behind the joy and connection lies significant physical effort—a key finding in the report Dancing to the Beat: Movement Experiences of Polyfest Participants in Otago and Southland.
This research, funded by Sport New Zealand's Hawaiki Hou Fund, sheds light on the physical benefits of cultural performance and its unique role in promoting active lifestyles. The fund focuses on creating pathways that make physical activity accessible for all New Zealanders.
Exploring Movement Through Culture
Researchers from Auckland University of Technology (AUT) conducted surveys at the 2023 Murihiku and Otago Polyfests, focusing on regional perspectives often overshadowed by the iconic ASB Polyfest in Auckland.
Lead researcher, Dr. Sierra Keung, highlighted the importance of this study:
"It was a chance to get to the nitty-gritty of why our rangatahi move the way they do."
The findings revealed that many Pasifika and Māori youth in Southland and Otago participate in multiple sports but often don’t perceive cultural performances as physical activity, despite their physically demanding nature.
A Broader Perspective on Physical Activity
By reframing cultural performance as an avenue for movement, the report advocates for a more inclusive understanding of physical activity. Events like Polyfest are not just celebrations of heritage—they’re powerful platforms that integrate culture, community, and health in meaningful ways.
For more insights, explore the full report and learn how Polyfest is inspiring active, connected communities across Aotearoa.
This article references content originally published by Louisa Steyl in The Southland Times on April 9, 2024. Read the original article here.
