ponataki - mpia.govt.nz · hello/greetings to you all. tina is my name. how are you all? person 2...
TRANSCRIPT
MINISTRY FOR PACIFIC PEOPLES
PONATAKI Niue Language Educational Resource
Photograph by ©Chloe Lee Photogrpahy The Ponataki resource was co-designed, co-developed and co-led by members from the Niuean community, with contributions from Te Papa Museum, Blackboard Jungle and supported by Ministry for Pacific Peoples.
PONATAKI, 1
CONTENTS SECTION ONE: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 2
SECTION TWO: LEARNING THE BASICS IN VAGAHAU NIUE ................................................................ 4
Unit 1: Fakaakoaga he tau Matatohi he VagahauNiue (Learning the Basics of the Niue Alphabet)
............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Unit 2: Tau Fakafeleveia | Greetings .................................................................................................. 8
Unit 3: Tau Numela | Numbers ........................................................................................................ 14
Unit 4: Tau Alaga he Tino | Parts of the Body .................................................................................. 17
Unit 5: Magafaoa | Family ................................................................................................................ 20
Unit 6: Tau Hūhū | Asking Questions............................................................................................... 27
Unit 7: Tau Lanu Kehekehe | Colours ............................................................................................... 31
Unit 8: Tau Fua Lakau | Fruits .......................................................................................................... 33
Unit 9: Tau Mena Tui | Clothing ....................................................................................................... 36
Unit 10: Tau Aho, Mahina, Tulā mo e Tau Vaha He Tau | Days, Months, Time and Seasons ........ 38
Unit 11: Puhala Fakaako | Giving Instructions.................................................................................. 42
Unit 12: Kaina Haaku | My Home ...................................................................................................... 44
SECTION 3: ARTS, CRAFTS AND CULTURE ......................................................................................... 48
Tau Koli FakaNiue | Types of Niue Dances ...................................................................................... 49
Tau Tufuga Gahua Lima | Arts and Crafts ....................................................................................... 53
SECTION 4: SPIRITUALITY ................................................................................................................... 66
Liogi he Iki | The Lord’s prayer ........................................................................................................ 66
Tau Liogi ma e tau fanau ikiiki | Prayers for young children .......................................................... 66
Falu Lologo Mahani | Some Well Known Hymns or Songs ............................................................ 67
Tau Kupu Mahuiga he Tohi Tapu | Important words in the Bible ................................................... 71
Talahauaga, Ma e Aho, Puhala Fakapuloa | Quotes, Daily use, Social Media ............................... 72
Lologo Fakalilifu he Motu ko Niue | Niue National Anthem .......................................................... 74
SECTION 5: BEING NIUEAN IN AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND .............................................................. 75
NIUE TAOGA | NIUEAN TREASURES (contemporary and traditional) FROM TE PAPA MUSEUM .. 77
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ....................................................................................................................... 79
EVALUATION ........................................................................................................................................ 80
2016 NIUE LANGUAGE WEEK POSTER ................................................................................................ 81
PONATAKI, 2
SECTION ONE: INTRODUCTION
Ponataki, Tukutaula ke Mauokafua e Vagahau Niue
Bind, Anchor to Firmly Uphold the Vagahau Niue
Ponataki | Bind
To be bound or to bind suggests that two things were once separated. The language and the
people are two things that need to be bound together to create cultural IDENTITY.
Tukutaula | Anchor
When we are anchored in our identity, that is, we are confident in who we are as Niue people.
Being anchored is to be confident, in Vagahau Niue and being confident in Aga Fakamotu Niue
(Niuean culture) within the many diverse contexts of life in Aotearoa New Zealand. This
metaphoric anchor can also be used to anchor oneself in the face of adversity - drawing from the
rich cultural knowledge unique and specific to Aga Fakamotu Niue.
Mauokafua | Firmly Uphold
Vagahau Niue is both what anchors and binds us to Niue. Often it is difficult to firmly uphold,
much like the difficulty a Vaka often experiences upon rough seas. Such rough conditions can be
weathered if we have something that is bound to solid ground (Niue). Wherever we travel and
explore we must remain anchored and bound to our language, cultural heritage and people to
allow us to firmly uphold. The language as spoken by our tau mamatua tupuna (grandparents)
transcends time, meaning if our language is to be firmly upheld as the world evolves and
changes, we too can also be firmly upheld no matter what life throws in our midst.
Bind, Anchor to Firmly Uphold the Vagahau Niue
This is not to say that without the language you are not connected to Niue but to firmly uphold
one must be securely anchored. However an anchor is only as good as its lashings that bind it to
its user. Even still the lashings will only work if the binds are tight and if the anchor is positioned
within something secure and solid. Each component is just as important as the other. The process
of anchoring is only successful if we holistically respect and acknowledge each component.
Vagahau Niue is integral to the preservation of the Niue culture as we know it, but its survival
depends on us! You are just as important. Your strength and enthusiasm in which you learn
Vagahau Niue depends on all three components coming together in harmony.
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#KoAuKoENiue
"I am Niue"
#KoAuKoENiue is a short, sharp statement of empowerment and ownership that unites our Niue
youth worldwide.
Living outside of Niue we are exposed to many different cultures and may be influenced to take
on new cultural norms and ways of life. In doing so, we may face difficulties in preserving and
maintaining our Niuean identity amongst the many other identities that inform who we are.
We hope this hashtag will serve as a reminder for Niue youth worldwide to claim the taoga that is
rightfully theirs by blood.
Regardless of whether we speak Vagahau Niue or not, it is the willingness to learn, and the heart
to desire belonging that should be important in our fenoga as young Niueans.
I am, you are, we are, Niue!
Ko au, ko koe, ko e tautolu, ko Niue!
Niue Youth Network, Auckland
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SECTION TWO: LEARNING THE BASICS IN VAGAHAU NIUE
Learning Expectations
The introductory units in this handout “Learning the Basics in Vagahau Niue” will assist new learners
to learn the basic concepts, the vocabulary and understand Vagahau Niue. The instructions are in
English to help you the new Learner.
Learning Resources
The Units in this Resource is prepared for the new Learners of Vagahau Niue in mind with support
from fluent Vagahau Niue Speakers.
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes are what you are expected to learn at the end of each unit
Learning Units
The learning units comprise of Vocabulary, conversations, activities and a song. All the Units are
written in Vagahau and in English.
Activities
The activities in the units have been made to ensure they are easy and user friendly and fun to share.
Pronunciation
The Alphabet Chart and the Phonics Chart are specifically provided to help new learners with the
pronunciation of Vagahau Niue.
Assessment
An oral assessment of where people are at with Vagahau Niue can be shared at the beginning of the
Introductory Unit and or at the end of the lessons. This way Learners will share what they have
learned and if they have enjoyed the experience. This is a free choice assessment for these units.
Ki a monuina
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Learning Units
Unit 1 Fakaakoaga he tau Matatohi he Vagahau Niue
(Learning the Basics of Vagahau Niue Alphabet)
Unit 2 Tau Fakafeleveia/Greetings
Unit 3 Tau Numela/Numbers
Unit 4 Tau Alaga he Tino/Parts of the Body
Unit 5 Magafaoa/Family
Unit 6 Tau Hūhū; Ko e heigoa, ko hai, ko e ha, ko fe, ko e a fe?
Asking Questions: What, who, why, where, when?
Unit 7 Tau Lanu Kehekehe/Colours
Unit 8 Tau Fua Lakau/Fruits
Unit 9 Tau Mena Tui/Clothing
Unit 10 Tau Aho, Mahina, Tula mo e Tau Vaha He Tau
Unit 11 Fakatutala/Giving Instructions
Unit 12 Kaina Haaku/My Home
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Unit 1: Fakaakoaga he tau Matatohi he VagahauNiue (Learning the Basics of
the Niue Alphabet)
Learning Outcomes
Learners should be able to:
Say the Niue alphabet, the vowels and consonants of Vagahau Niue.
Pronounce the phrases on the pronunciation chart.
Memorise the pronunciation chart.
Practice learning the Niue Alphabet
Totou Matatohi/Alphabet (17 letters)
A E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V
Practice learning the vowels
Vaoeli/Vowels (5 vowels)
A E I O U
Practice learning the consonants
Konosonane/Consonants (12 consonants)
F G H K L M N P R S T V
Resources you need:
1. An Alphabet Chart you can make
2. Packet of Alphabet Flash Cards
3. An Alphabet tune you know
4. Pen and paper
ACTIVITIES
1. Practice the pronunciation of letters and complete the activities.
2. Make your own alphabet and pronunciation chart to take home to learn.
3. Sing the Alphabet to the tune of a nursery rhyme you know.
4. Chant the pronunciation chart up and down and or across to a clapping rhythmic pattern.
5. Use the flash cards to test your memory and recall.
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FAKALEO HE TAU KUPU | PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
The chart contains the sounds of the short vowels of Vagahau Niue.
Pronunciation Key
A, a pronounced ‘a’ as in car, far
E, e pronounced ‘e’ as in egg, enter
I, i pronounced ‘ee’ as in beet, sheet
O, o pronounced ‘o’ as in sore, sort
U, u pronounced ‘oo’ as in cool, pool
Fakaleo e tau Matatohi/Pronunciation Chart
Practice the pronunciation chart until you feel comfortable to start on the Activities.
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Unit 2: Tau Fakafeleveia | Greetings
Learning Outcomes
Learners should be able to:
Pronounce common used greetings.
Greet, farewell and thank people appropriately.
Introduce them selves and be able to ask someone their name.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Learning to greet people
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Fakaalofa atu Hello/Hi there/Greetings
Fakaalofa lahi atu kia koe. Much greetings to you. (to one person)
Fakaalofa atu kia mua. Fakalofa lahi atu kia mua.
Greetings to you both/two. Much greetings to you both/two.
Fakaalofa lahi atu kia mutolu oti Much greetings to you all.
Fakaalofa hofihofi atu Precious greetings to you
Fakaalofa age ki a ia Greetings to her/ him
Fakaalofa age ki a lautolu Greetings to them
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CONVERSATIONS
Greet someone and say who you are Repeat the exercise until everyone has had a turn
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad translation
Person 1 Fakaalofa atu kia koe. Ko Tina e higoa haaku.
Hello/Greetings to you. Tina is my name.
Person 2 Fakaalofa lahi atu kia koe. Ko Lima e higoa haaku.
Much hello/greetings to you. Lima is my name.
Greet one person, say who you are and ask who he/she is? Repeat the exercise around the group
Person speaking Faka-Niue Broad translation
Person 1 Fakaalofa atu kia koe. Ko Tina e higoa haaku. Ko hai a koe?
Hello/Greetings to you. Tina is my name. Who are you?
Person 2 Fakaalofa atu ma Tina. Ko Mele e higoa haaku.
Hello/Greetings Tina. Mele is my name.
Greet two people and ask how they are
Repeat the exercise around the group
Person speaking Faka-Niue Broad translation.
Person 1 Fakaalofa atu ki a mua. Malolo nakai a mua?
Hello/Greetings to you two. How are you two?
Person 2 Fakaalofa lahi atu kia koe. Malolo a maua, fakaaue.
Much hello/greetings to you. We are well, thank you.
Greet three or more people
Repeat the exercise
Person speaking Faka-Niue Broad translation.
Person 1 Fakaalofa atu kia mutolu. Ko Tina e higoa haaku. Malolo nakai a mutolu.
Hello/Greetings to you all. Tina is my name. How are you all?
Person 2 Fakaalofa lahi atu ma Tina. Malolo a mautolu fakaaue.
Much hello/greetings Tina. We are very well thank you.
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Lologo | Song
Fakalofa atu ko e faka-niue Welcome to you all
Koli vivi vivi e tau lima Vivi vivi mo e tino katoa
Taha ua tolu fa Welcome to you all
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Saying Goodbye
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Koe kia Goodbye. Goodbye to you. (To 1 person going or staying)
Mua kia Goodbye to you two. (To 2 people going or staying)
Mutolu kia Goodbye to you all. (To 3 or more people going or staying)
Nofo a koe kia Goodbye to you. (To 1 person staying)
Nonofo a mua kia Goodbye to you two. (To 2 people staying)
Nonofo a mutolu kia Good bye to you all. (To 3 or more people staying)
Fano a koe kia Goodbye to you. (To 1 person going)
O a mua kia Goodbye to you two. (To 2 people going)
O a mutolu kia Goodbye to you all. (To 3 or more people going)
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ACTIVITIES
1. What are Vagahua Niue phrases/sentences for the following:
Greetings
Goodbye
Goodbye to someone staying behind?
2. How do you greet and say farewell to:
One person staying
Two people going
Three or more people going or staying
Sing ‘Fakalofa atu ko e Faka-Niue’ and create some actions to accompany the singing.
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Unit 3: Tau Numela | Numbers
Learning Outcomes
Learners should be able to:
Count in Vagahau Niue.
Learning to count from 1 to 10
Tau Numela Numbers in English Nakai Zero/Naught/Nil 0
Taha One 1
Ua Two 2
Tolu Three 3
Fa Four 4
Lima Five 5
Ono Six 6
Fitu Seven 7
Valu Eight 8
Hiva Nine 9
Hogofulu Ten 10
Learning to count from 11 to 20
Tau Numela English Numbers Hogofulu ma taha/Ma taha Eleven 11
Hogofulu ma ua/Ma ua Twelve 12
Hogofulu ma tolu/Ma tolu Thirteen 13
Hogofulu ma fa/Ma fa Fourteen 14
Hogofulu ma lima/Ma lima Fifiteen 15
Hogofulu ma ono/Ma ono Sixteen 16
Hogofulu ma fitu/Ma fitu Seventeen 17
Hogofulu ma valu/Ma valu Eighteen 18
Hogofulu ma hiva/Ma hiva Nineteen 19
Ua hogofulu/Ua fulu Twenty 20
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Lologo | Songs
Songs to support the learning
Taha e Tama Taha e Fuakau
Taha e tama ua e tama tolu e tama Niue Fa e tama lima e tama ono e tama Niue
Fitu e tama valu e tama hiva e tama Niue Hogofulu e tama Niue.
Taha e Fuakau Ne Fefeua Ne fefeua i lalo he akau
Fefeua kete kulu kete ala kete kulu ala Ha ha ha he hi ho hu
(Repeat the song until you reach number ten)
Resources:
You will need:
Bottle tops, sticks, buttons, pebbles
Number chart
Number flash cards
Number poems
Jingle cards/Chart
Bingo Game Board or a Pack of cards
Activities:
Encourage all learners to use Vagahau Niue during the activities.
1. Count and chant the numbers up and down the ladder
2. Use fingers to show numbers and say how many
3. Use number flash cards as quick recall of numbers learnt
4. Play pick up card and say its name
5. Play the Number Bingo game
How to play:
Pick up Cards:
Spread the cards face down on the floor.
Each person in the group pick up a card, read it and place it back in a different position.
Bingo Number Game: The Caller uses Vagahau Niue
Everyone in the group is given a Bingo card ready to play.
Use bottle tops to cover numbers being called on the large chart.
First person to cover all the numbers on his/her card calls Pigiko/Bingo.
As learners become familiar with the game and number names they can ask for two
cards.
The Caller can take over the role of the Teacher/Tutor.
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Unit 4: Tau Alaga he Tino | Parts of the Body
Learning Outcomes
Learners should be able to:
Clearly name and identify parts of the body.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Learn the names of parts of the Body
Tau alaga he tino Parts of the body
Ulu Head
Mata Eye
Teliga Ear
Ihu Nose
Gutu Mouth
Tukeua Shoulder
Kakia Neck
Lima Hand / Arm
Ka lima Forearm
Tau mata lima Fingers
Hui Leg
Tau nifo/nifo Teeth/tooth
Alelo Tongue
CONVERSATIONS
Describe the parts of the body
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Ko e ulu haaku a ē. This is my head.
Ko e hui haaku a ē. This is my leg
Ko e ihu haaku a ē. This is my nose.
Ko e gutu haaku a ē. This is my mouth.
Ko e kakia haaku a ē. This is my neck.
Ko e tukeua haaku a ē. This is my shoulder.
Ko e lima haaku a ē. This is my hand/arm.
Ua e mata haaku. I have two eyes.
Ua e lima haaku. I have two arms/hands.
Ua e hui haaku. I have two legs.
Hogofulu e matalima haaku I have ten fingers
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Lologo | Song:
Ulu Tukeua Ihu mo e Mata Patipati e Tau Lima
Ulu tukeua ihu mo e mata Ulu tukeua ihu mo e mata Ulu tukeua ihu mo e mata Teliga gutu Patipasi mai
Patipati e tau lima Patipati e tau lima Faka pakapaka e tau hui Talaatu au ki a koe Tau talofa mo e lulu lima Koli fiafia a taua he aho nei Liu ki kaina ti fano a koe
Resources you will need:
1. A large poster size picture of a human body.
2. Labels ready to label the parts of the body.
3. Paper, pencils, a dice and assorted coloured crayons
Activities: At the end of the lesson.
1. Singalong to all the known songs, and clapping hands in time
2. Name the parts of the body, use the phrases learnt.
3. Sing ‘Ulu Tukeua ihu mo e mata’ remember to point to parts of the body.
Draw and dress me:
1. In pairs play the game of ‘Draw and dress me’.
2. Each person is given an A4 paper and a number dice to share. Use pencil to draw with.
3. Each number on the dice represents a part of the body the group decides to have before
the game starts.
4. For example: Head -1, body -2, legs -3, arms – 4, eyes – 5, mouth -6. First person to
complete the outline is the winner.
What is Vagahau Niue for the following sentences?
a) This is my neck?
b) This is my mouth?
c) This is my leg?
d) This is my arm?
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Unit 5: Magafaoa | Family
Learning Outcomes
There are four parts to this unit:
1. Part One: The children 2. Part Two: The siblings 3. Part Three: Family Members 4. Part Four: The village your parents come from?
Under each unit, learners should be able to:
Identify children by their genes and their relationship.
Say whether a sibling is older or younger than himself/herself.
Talk about family members
Learn the village names of Niue.
Part One: Tau fanau | Children
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Faka-Niue Braod Translation
Tama muke / mukemuke Baby/infant
Tama taane Boy
Tama fifine Girl
Pulapulaola/mokopuna fifine Granddaughter/great granddaughter
Pulapulaola/mokopuna Grandchild
Pulapulaola/mokopuna taane Grandson/great grandson
Lafu tama fifine/nisi Niece
Lafu tama taane/nefiu Nephew
CONVERSATIONS
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Person 1 Fakaalofa lahi atu. Ko e tama taane haaku a e. Ko Tim e higoa haana.
Much greetings. This is my boy. Tim is his name.
Person 2 Fakaalofa atu ki a koe. Ko e tama fifine haaku a e. Ko Lara e higoa haana.
Greetings/hello to you. This is my girl. Lara is her name.
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Lologo | Song
Ko fe e Tama Fifine
Ko fe ko fe e tama fifine (Repeat 3X) Ha he ulu akau he mena i ko
Omai ma fanau ke o ke kumi (Repeat 3X) Ha he ulu akau he mena I ko.
Part Two: Siblings | Tau Lafu
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Tau tagata/tau matakainaga People/friends, acquaintances, cousins
Tama Child
Lafu Sibling, Cousin
Mahakitaga Sister (of a male sibling/cousin)
Tugaane Brother (of a female sibling/cousin)
Tama taute/leveki Foster child
Tehina Younger sister/brother
Taokete Older sister/brother
Tama hiki Adopted child
Tama taane/fifine hiki Adopted sister/brother
CONVERSATIONS
Learn to introduce myself and my siblings
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad translations
Person 1 Fakalofa lahi atu kia mua. Ko e tehina haaku a e. Ko Kafika haana higoa.
Much greetings to you two. This is my young sister. (Girl talking) Kafika is her name.
Person 2 Fakaalofa atu ki a mua. Ko e tugaane haaku a e. Ko Patrick haana a higoa.
Greetings to you two. This is my brother. (Girl talking) Patrick is his name.
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Activities:
1. Identify a family member in Vagahau Niue:
Brother Sister Sibling Foster child Tehina
Boy Girl Granddaughter Grandchild Older sister
Part Three: Family Members | Magafaoa
VOCABULARY
Tau tagata/tau matakainaga People/friends, acquaintances, cousins
Matua fifine Mother
Matua taane Father
Hoana Wife
Taane Husband
Tama mukemuke Baby
Matua tupuna taane Grandfather
Matua tupuna fifine Grandmother
Tama taane Son / boy child
Tama fifine Daughter / girl child
Tau mamatua Parents
Ko au Me / I / I am
Mahakitaga/tehina/taokete Sister/young sister/older sister
Tugaane/tehina/taokete Brother/younger brother/older brother
Kapitiga Friend
Mokopuna Grandchild
Introduce Yourself and Your Family
Faka-Niue Translation
Fakalofa atu ki a mutolu oti Ko Laloniu e higoa haaku Ko Tessa e matua fifine haaku Ko Liam e matua taane haaku Toko ua e lafu tehina haaku. Ko Kafika mo Laravesi Fakaaue he fakanogonogo mai.
Greetings to you all Laloniu is my name Tessa is my mother’s name Liam is my father’s name I have two young siblings They are Kafika and Laravesi Thank you for listening
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Activity:
1. Resources you need:
Paper, photos, pencils, paste, scissors
2. Prepare a Family Tree of your own and put in the names.
3. Include some family photos to share with others.
4. What is Vagahau Niue for the following words:
Father Mother Grandfather Sister Brother
Part Four: Tau Maaga i Niue | Villages on Niue
VOCABULARY
Tau Maaga/Villages Pronunciation (See your Pronunciation Chart)
Alofi A / lo/ fi
Makefu Ma / ke / fu
Tuapa Tu / a / pa
Namukulu Na / mu / ku / lu
Hikutavake Hi / ku / ta / va / ke
Toi To / i
Mutalau Mu / ta / la / u
Liku Li / ku
Lakepa La / ke / pa
Hakupu Ha / ku / pu
Vaiea Va / I / ea
Avatele A / va /te /le
Tamakautoga Ta / ma /ka /u /to /ga
Lologo | Song | Chant
Ka Fiti e Niue e
Ka fiti e niu e Ka fiti molese
Tagitagi a lulu e e e Tagitagi a lulu e
Hake e koli fakaapaapa Hifo e koli fakanofonofo Hake e koli fakaapaapa
Hifo e koli fakanofonofo e e e Tagitagi a lulu e
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CONVERSATIONS
Introduce yourself, your parents and say where they come from in Niue
Faka-Niue Broad translation
Fakaalofa lahi atu kia mutolu oti Much greetings to you all.
Ko Tina e higoa haaku Tina is my name
Ko Vesi Haimohetuki e matua fifine haaku. Vesi Haimohetuki is my mother’s name.
Hau a ia he maaga ko Alofi. She came from the village of Alofi.
Ko Rod Asekona e matua taane haaku. Rod Asekona is my father’s name.
Hau a ia he maaga ko Alofi. He came from the village of Alofi.
Lologo | Song
Oi ma Matua KI FE
Oi ma matua (repeat) Kua fia liu au (repeat)
Ke he haaku motu (repeat) Ne fanau ai au(repeat)
Kua leva foki haaku nofo paea ke he motu nei ko Aotearoa
Fakalofa mai la ma matua Liliu a taua (Repeat whole song again)
Ki Nukututaha Ki Nukutukulea
Ki Fakahoamotu Ki Motutefua
Mo Niuefekai Tukulua - Hu
Activities:
1. Hang up a large wall map of Niue.
2. Identify the villages
3. Share some pamphlets from Niue – talk about the activities Niue people do including
leisure times
4. How many villages are there in Niue?
5. What is the capital of Niue?
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Unit 6: Tau Hūhū | Asking Questions
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Learn the basic terms used when asking questions.
Apply these basic terms appropriately in everyday conversation.
Ask appropriate questions about everyday events.
Ask questions confidently when making polite enquiries about another person’s well being.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Asking Questions
Tau Hūhū Questions
Ko e heigoa? What?
Ko hai? Who?
Ko/Ki fe? Where?
Ko e ha? Why?
A fe? When?
Ha e fe? Which?
Ha hai e….? Whose is this…..?
Ask who people are
Tau Hūhū Questions
Ko hai a koe? Who are you?
Ko hai a mua? Who are you two?
Ko hai a mutolu? Who are you all?
Ko hai a lautolu? Who are they?
Ko hai a ia? Who is he/she?
Ko hai a na/ko? Who is that?
More commonly used phrases
Tau Hūhū Questions
Ko e heigoa a e? What is this?
Ko e heigoa a na? What is that?
Hau a koe mo hai? Who did you come with?
Ko e eke ha a koe? What are you doing?
Ko e tapulu ha hai a e? Whose dress is this?
Ha e fe haau? Which is yours?
Ko fe a koe? Where are you?
Ha e fe haaku? Ko e fe haaku? Which one is mine? Where is mine?
Ko fe a Kirsty? Where is Kirsty?
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CONVERSATIONS
Asking Questions
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation.
Person 1 Ko koe mo hai ma Laloniu? Who is/are with you Laloniu?
Person 2 Ko au mo Lara. I am with Lara. It’s me and Lara.
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation.
Person 1 Ko fe e matua fifine? Where is (the) mother?
Person 2 Ko e matua fifine ha i fale. Mother is in the house.
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation.
Person 1 Ko e heigoa haau ne taute? What are you doing?
Person 2 Ko e kai au he fua tosisi. I am eating a sausage.
Lologo | Song
Tama Niue ko e fano ki fe Hau a koe I fe ma mea
Tama Niue ko e fano a ko e ki fe? Fano au ke futi ika he luo ika I Vaila Ne loga mo e fuluola E tau ika ha ha i ai
Hau a koe I fe ma mea Hau au he tau tiale Ti ko fe e tau tiale haau Kua kaiha tuai he Gogo Koli ke tu te gogo e (repeat 4) Tu tegogo tu tegogo tu tegogo e
Activities:
1. Sing songs already learned
2. Practise asking questions and responding with a friend
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Unit 7: Tau Lanu Kehekehe | Colours
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Say the colours in Vagahau Niue
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Faka-Niue English names
Lanu kula / Kula Red
Lanu ago / Ago Yellow
Lanu moana Dark blue
Lanu lagi Light blue
Lanu uli / Uli Black
Lanu kaki / Kāki Brown
Lanu fuahoi Purple
Lanu tea / Tea White
Lanu laumamē Pink
Lanu lau futi Light green
Lanu lau akau / Lanu laukou Dark green
Activities:
1. Make a colour chart and name the colours
2. Use colour flash cards to play fish in pairs
3. Play memory games to see how many colours you can remember.
4. Use colour sticks to ask about colours.
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Unit 8: Tau Fua Lakau | Fruits
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Recognise and correctly name the fruit.
Ask questions in the group about the fruit in the basket.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Faka-Niue Translation
Fua apala Apple
Fua moli Orange
Fua pisi Peach
Fua tipolo Lemon
Fua meleni Watermelon
Fua vine Passion fruit
Fua palamu Plum
Fua talapo Cherimoya
Fua mago Mango
Fua kulepi Grape
Fua vi Mexican apple
Fua vine palasini Granadilla
Fua niu Coconut
CONVERSATIONS
Asking Questions
Person Speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Person 1 Ko e heigoa a e? What is this?
Person 2 Ko e fua apala a na. That is an apple fruit.
Person 1 Ko hai ne fia kai fua apala? Who wants to eat an apple?
Person 2 Ko Lima ne fia kai fua apala. Lima wants to eat an apple.
Person 1 Ha e fe e fua palamu? Which fruit is the plum?
Person 2 Ko e fua palamu ha he lima haau.
The plum is in your hand.
Person 1 Ko e heigoa a na? What is that?
Person 2 Ko e fua moli a e. This is an orange.
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Lologo | Chant
Pa pa teliga e
Pa pa teliga, tuku he teliga e
Pa pa teliga, tuku he teliga ko
Poaki mai e tau kalapule
Ke oage e tau fanau
Ke kai e tau futi momoho
Neke oti he mokulu ki tahi
Ko pule ko pule tagaleu e (Repeat)
Activities:
1. Identify the fruits in the fruit basket/bowl.
2. Match flash card names to the fruit.
3. Make a bowl of fruit salad for lunch.
4. Draw/paint a picture of assorted fruits.
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Unit 9: Tau Mena Tui | Clothing
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Recognize and name the clothing in Vagahau Niue.
Name the piece of clothing they wear.
Describe everyday wear for each occasion.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Tau Mena/Koloa Tui Clothing items
Tapulu fifine A (woman’s) dress
Patusisi Skirt
Patu tapulu Blouse
Fihui ku Shorts
Fihui loa Trousers
Tapulu mohe Pyjamas/Sleeping gown
Tapulu miti T-shirt
Peleue Jacket /Coat
Pilialo Petticoat /half slip
Hui tosini / Tau tosini A sock / socks
Tapulu miti kavei Singlet or tank top
Tapulu fafao Shirt
CONVERSATIONS
Identify each item of clothing by name
Person speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Person 1 Ko e tapulu ha a ē? What type of clothing is this?
Person 2 Ko e tapulu miti a na. That is a t-shirt.
Person 1 Ko e mena tui ha a ē? What type of clothing is this?
Person 2 Ko e tapulu mohe a na. Those are pyjamas.
Identify the clothing on the table by name and colour
Person speaking Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Person 1 Ko e tapulu miti kavei kula a ē. This singlet is red. This is a red singlet.
Person 2 Ko e patusisi lanu lagi a ē. This petticoat is light blue..
Person 3 Ko e fihui uli loa a ē. This trousers is black.
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Resource needed for this Unit:
1. A basket of assorted coloured clothing.
2. Paper for labels and for drawing.
3. Assorted pieces of coloured fabric for collage work.
4. Play the Game ‘Draw and dress me’ outline and colour in the clothes.
What is Vagahau Niue for the following phrases:
Faka-Niue Translation
Yellow shirt
Dark blue shorts
Orange skirt
Brown jacket
White shirt
Purple socks
Pink blouse
Introduction
Faka-Niue Broad translation
Fakaalofa lahi atu kia mutolu oti. Greetings to you all.
Ko Tina e higoa haaku. Tina is my name./ My name is Tina.
Tui au he tapulu tea mo e mo e lanu lagi. I am wearing a white and light blue dress.
Lologo | Song
Haaku Tapulu Kiva
Haaku fai matua ne fa vale mai He fa kiva haaku tapulu
Ka e ono ni ka ha te a koe ma matua Ke he fonua kiva kiva koa nei
Ti unu faka tekiteki te ma matua Neke hoko mai e taha magaaho Ke malipilipi ai e tau vala tupe
He Fakatufono ki a au nei
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Unit 10: Tau Aho, Mahina, Tulā mo e Tau Vaha He Tau | Days, Months, Time
and Seasons
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Name the days of the week, months and seasons of the Year
Tell the time
VOCABULARY
Learn the Days of the week.
Tau Aho he Faahi Tapu. Days of the Week.
Aho Gofua Monday
Aho Ua Tuesday
Aho Lotu Wednesday
Aho Tuloto Thursday
Aho Falaile Friday
Aho Faiumu Saturday
Aho Tapu Sunday
Learning the months of the year
Tau Mahina he Tau Months of the Year
Ianuali January
Fepuali February
Masi March
Apelila April
Me May
Iuni June
Iulai July
Aokuso August
Sepetema September
Oketopa October
Novema November
Tesemo December
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Learning the names of the Seasons of the Year
Tau Vaha he Tau Seasons of the Year.
Vaha tau tupu Spring
Vaha tau mateafu Autumn
Vaha to lā/laa Drought season
Vaha to afā Cyclone/Hurricane season
Vaha mafana Summer
Vaha makalili Winter
Vaha Kilisimasi Christmas time/period
Kamataaga he tau Beginning of the year
Fakaotiaga he tau End of the year
Learning to tell the time
Tau magaaho mo e tau tulā he aho. Time of the day
Mogo pogipogi/magaaho pogipogi Morning
Matafatafa aho / Ko moa Dawn / Cock crowing time
Matahola valu Eight o’clock
Hafa he mole e tolu Half past tolu
Tupoulā / Tupou laa Midday/Twelve o’clock
Afiafi Evening
Magaho kai afiafi Dinner-time
Tuloto po Midnight
Kuata he mole Quarter past
Palelā / Pale laa Afternoon
Lologo | Song
Mogo Pogipogi ne hau ai
Mogo pogipogi ne hau ai au he aoga
Ti logona e au e leo he logo Kua tagi mai mo e leo he Faiaoga
Ke tutu tutu fakalogologo Ai maeke talaatu mo e tagi
He mamahi he mamahi haaku tau alo lima Ka e fakauka mo e ono ke he lagi
Mo e amoamo amoamo haaku tau alo lima
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Unit 11: Puhala Fakaako | Giving Instructions
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Ask questions and response in Vagahau Niue.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Giving instructions to children at breakfast time
Faka-Niue Translation
Fakaalofa atu ma Laloniu. Malolo nakai he pogipogi nei?
Good morning Laloniu. Are you feeling good this morning?
Kua holoholo nakai e tau mata haau? Have you washed your face?
Fano ke tui e tapulu ti hau ke kai. Go and get dressed and come to eat.
Ko e heigoa haau ne fia kai? What do you want to eat?
Fia kai fua moa nakai? Do you want to eat an egg?
Fakatoka e laulau fakamolemole. Set the table please.
Taute taha tosi ke kai aki e siamu. Make a toast to eat with jam.
Tuku mai e siamu he laulau. Put the jam on the table.
Taute taha seneuisi mo kai lā haau. Make a sandwich for your lunch.
Making conversations at breakfast time in Vagahau
Person 1 Fakaalofa atu ma Andrew.
Person 2 Fakaalofa atu ma Mā.
Person 1 Malolo nakai a koe he pogipogi nei?
Person 2 Malolo au fakaue.
Person 1 Kua holoholo nakai e tau mata haau?
Person 2 Fano au ke holoholo he mogo nei.
Person 1 Tui e tapulu ti hau ke kai.
Person 2 Tui au he tapulu lanu lau akau he aho nei.
Person 1 Ko e heigoa haau ne fia kai?
Person 2 Fia kai tosi au he mogonei.
Person 1 Taute ni e koe e tosi haau.
Person 2 E ma Mā, toka ni ke taute e au.
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Person 1 Uta taha seneuisi ke kai a koe.
Person 2 Toka ke taute ni e au.
Person 1 Kua Iloilo tuai a koe he taute kai. Tama mitaki.
Person 2 Fakaaue ma Mā. Fia kai seneuisi moa au he aho nei.
Giving instructions at shower-time
Faka-Niue Translation
Ko hai ka koukou mua? Who is having a shower first?
Uta e tauela haau ke he poko koukou. Take your towel to the bathroom.
Ua uku e tau ulu he afiafi nei. Do not wash your hair this evening.
Manatu ke tautau hake e tauela ki luga. Remember to hang up the towel.
Fakamōmō e foloa ka oti e koukou haau. Dry the floor after your shower.
Conversation at shower-time
Person Speaking
Faka-Niue Person Speaking
Translations
Person 1 Ko hai ka koukou mua? Person 2 Ko au ka koukou mua.
Person 1 Uta e tauela haau ke he poko koukou.
Person 2 Fakaaoga au he tauela tea.
.
Person 1 Ua uku e ulu haau he afiafi nei. Person 2 Ko e ha ne nakai uku ai?
Person 1 Neke pala e ulu haau ka mohe. Person 2 Uku la e ulu haaku a pogi.
Person 1 Tui e tapulu mohe haau. Person 2 Ko fe e tapulu mohe haaku ma Nena?
Person 1 Haia i loto he toloa. Person 2 Fakaaue ma Nena.
Lologo | Song
Mohe la ma kapisiga
Mohe la ma kapisiga Ko e laa kua to
Mohe loa monuina e po Ala mai a pogipogi
Feleveia a taua Fakalofa lahi atu.
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Unit 12: Kaina Haaku | My Home
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Identify and name the different rooms in the house.
Identify utensils used in the kitchen
Follow instructions in the kitchen.
Identify items in your bedroom by name.
VOCABULARY and PHRASES
Learn the names and parts of the house
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Fale House
Poko Room
Loto fale Sitting room/lounge
Peito Kitchen
Poko kai Dining room
Poko koukou Bathroom
Poko mohe Bedroom
Kaupā Veranda
Poko unumena laundry
CONVERSATIONS
Ask someone where they are and what they are doing
Person Speaking
Faka-Niue Person Speaking
Translations
Person 1 Fakalofa atu ma Michael. Ko fe a koe?
Person 1 Hello Michael. Where are you?
Person 2 Fakalofa atu ma Timothy. Hau ki fale. Ko au ha e he lotofale.
Person 2 Hello Timothy. Come inside. I am in the lounge.
Person 1 Ko e heigoa haau ne taute? Person 1 What are you doing?
Person 2 Ko e totou pepa au. Hau ke nofo he nofoa e ia au.
Person 2 I am reading a book. Come and sit on this chair by me.
Person 1 Fefe a koe he aho nei? Person 1 How are you today?
Person 2 Malolo au fakaaue. Nofo ke tutala mai kia au.
Person 2 I am very well thank you. Sit down and talk to me.
Person 1 Tunu fakamua e au e tioki to nofo ki lalo.
Person 1 I will boil the jug first before I sit down.
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Learn the names of the Kitchen Utensils
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Kapiniu kai Dinner plate
Kapiniu inu Mug/cup
Kalase inu Glass
Titipi Knife
Sipunu Spoon
Polu Bowl
Huki Fork
Tioki hila Electric jug
Faliki laulau Table cloth
Huki punu Can opener
Laulau kai Dining table
Ulo kaitunu Cooking pot/saucepan
CONVERSATIONS
Ask the children to help set the table for dinner
Person Speaking
Faka-Niue Person Speaking
Translations
Person 1 Mia, hau ke fakatoka e laulau kai. Person 1 Mia, come and set the table.
Person 2 Fakatoka e au e laulau. Toko fiha ka kai.
Person 2 I will set the table. How many people are eating?
Person 1 Fakatoka valu e kapiniu kai fakamolemole.
Person 1 Set out eight plates please.
Person 1. Omai a Pa mo Ma ke kai mo tautolu.
Person 1 Dad and Mum are coming to dinner with us.
Person 2 Homo ai pihia. Fia tutala au mo Pop.
Person 2 That’s nice. I want to speak with Pop.
Person 1 Manatu e tau huki, tau titipi mo e tau sipunu.
Person 1 Remember the forks, the knives and the spoons.
Person 1 Mike, fakamolemole fakaaoga e faliki laulau kula mo e uli.
Person 1 Mike, please use the red and black table cloth.
Learn the names of items in your bedroom
Faka-Niue Broad Translation
Mohega Bed
Laulau Dressing table
Puhatu Wardrobe
Fakaata Mirror
Uluga Pillow
Tau tapulu Clothes
Puha sevae Shoe box
Tau taute ulu Hair products
Kapati Cupboard
Toloa Drawers
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Person Speaking
Faka-Niue Person Speaking
Translation
Person 1 Laloniu hihi e tau kafu he mohega haau
Person 1 Laloniu change the sheets on your bed.
Person 2 Kua fita he tuku e au he matini unu mena.
Person 2 I have already put them in the washing machine.
Person 1 Manatu ke aaki foki e afi uluga. Person 1 Remember also to take off the pillow case.
Person 2 Fakaaoga nakai e au e afi uluga foou.
Person 2 Can I use the new pillow case?
Person 1 Tuku e tau koloa tui kua mōmō he toloa.
Person 1 Put your dry clothes in the drawer.
Person 2 Fakaaue ma Mami he fatufatu haaku tau tapulu.
Person 2 Thank you Mum for folding my clothes.
Activities:
1. What is Vagahau Niue for the following words:
Dinner plate Glass Kitchen Lounge Dressing table
Table cloth
2. Name five utensils you can find in the kitchen.
3. Name some items you have in your kitchen that is not mentioned in this list.
Lologo | Song
Fai Fuamoa au To Pi He Pelapela
Fai fuamoa au Fuluola mo e kula
Fai fuamoa au mo kai To to e au a ia mo e pako pako pako
Kua nofo mo e mamali mai kia au Talaage au ki a ia
Kua fia kai au ia koe Lagaki e au e tipunu mogoia
Kamata au ke ta pako pako pako Ha kua tata ke kai e au a ia.
To pi to pa to o pi to pi to pa Nava nava atu ke he uha to
Pihi pihi hake he tau polohui He pelapela he puhalatu
To pi to pa to o pi to pi to pa
CONVERSATIONS
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Pasi pasi e tau Lima Lulu ne hau hala Tokelau
Pasi pasi e tau lima Faka paka paka e tau hui Tala atu au kia koe Tau Talofa mo e lulu lima Koli fiafia a taua he aho nei O ki kaina ti fano a koe
Lulu ne hau hala Tokelau Taha e kuma ne tau he hui Fakalofa e lulu he tagi Tagi he to e kuma kit ahi Na te ma mea ko e la sifa na maau Lulu mata popoko koli ke tu he la fa
Lulu ne Hau Hala Tokelau Hihi e va mo pipi e uga
Lulu ne hau hala Tokelau Taha e kuma ne tau he hui Fakalofa e lulu he tagi Tagi he to e kuma ki tahi Na te ma mea ko e lasifa na ma au Lulu mata popoko koli Ke tu he la fa
Hihi e va hihi e va Hihi e va mo pipi e uga Ka fisika fisika e uga Ka fisika fisika e uga Ka fisika fisika e uga e Hifo e uga hifo e uga Hifo e uga ke tapato pato ki tai Ka fisika fisika e uga Ka fisika fisika e uga Ka fisika fisika e uga e Tukulua hu
Peka tu kau ua Haaku Fale Lupe
Sing: Peka tu kau ua tu he la fa Tu he la fa tu he lafa Peka tu kau ua tu he la fa Tu he la fa tu he lafa Chant: Peka tu kau ua Peka tu kau ua tu he la fa Tu he la fa tu he la fa Ko ke ko ki ko ka Ko ke ko ki ko ka Ko ke ko ki ko ka
Kua hafagi fakalahi e au haaku fale lupe Kua toka e tau lupe ke felele mo e o Ti felele o takai ke he tau fafaahi Mo e tutu ni he tau akau oti Ti kaeke ke liliu mai ke he ofaga Kua pa e au e hala mo e pe he Momohe a Kua ru kua ru kua ru aru aru Kua aru kua ru kua ru
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SECTION 3: ARTS, CRAFTS AND CULTURE
Activity
Practise in pairs the following phrases
Maeke nakai a koe ma …………….. ke koli?
Do you know how to dance……………..?
E, maeke ia au ke koli. Yes, I do know how to dance.
Nakai, ai iloa au ke koli tuga a koe. No, I do not know know how to dance like you.
Fiafia lahi au ke koli mo e haaku a tau kapitiga. I am always happy to dance/ perform with my friends.
Ko e tau faga koli fēfē haau ne maeke ke taute?
What types of dances can you do.
Fiafia lahi au ke koli popo. I like to do pop dancing.
Fiafia lahi au ke koli fakapiki mo e haaku a kapitiga
I like waltzing with my friend.
Maeke nakai ia koe ke fakakite mai? Can you show me how to do it?
Mafola ai tupetupe, onoono mai ki a au. Don’t worry, just watch me.
Taute pehē. Do it like this.
Vilo e tau lima. Twist your hands.
Pahu e tau hui. Stomp your feet.
Ue fakatatau e haau a muimui. Swiftly sway your hips.
Tele fakalahi e tau hui haau ki luga. Kick your feet right up in the air.
Ai aoga mā lahi au. I am very shy.
Ai iloa au ke koli tuga a koe. I don’t know how to dance like you.
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Tau Koli FakaNiue | Types of Niue Dances Takalo
Ko e takalo ko e koli fakataitai poke koli mau tauteute ke ō atu he tau. Ko e tau magahala nei kua
koli e takalo ke fakafeleveia aki e tau fenoga mahuiga ne hohoko atu ke he motu1. Ko e tau taane
ni ka takitaki mo e koli e takalo. Nakai maeke e tau fifine ke takitaki e takalo mo e koli e takalo. Ko
e tau fifine ke tutū mai i tua ke tauhea. Ko e koli fakamatapatu ni he tau taane. Ko e falu a tau
talahauaga, kua maeke e tau fifine ke koli e takalo. Ko e uta ni ke he tau magafaoa taki tokotaha
poke maaga e fifiliaga ia.
Takalo is a war dance. It was performed prior to going to war. Nowadays, takalo is performed at
formal welcoming occasions. Usually it is led by a male leader. He performs the calling out (hea) in
the whole takalo. Males are in the forefront, whilst females stand side by side in backing them up2.
Women were forbidden from performing the takalo. But this can vary depending on the clan or
village you come from especially nowadays. Actions are quite challenging and very masculine.
Figure 1: Men from Niue perform a traditional Polynesian dance, accompanied by the women singing and clapping, at the Festival of Pacific Arts in Townsville, Australia. Photo by Ludo Kuipers, Fri Aug 19, 1988
1 Aleke Fa’avae, I., (2013) Conversational Vagahau Niue Handbook, Pasifika Education Centre, Auckland. 2 Loeb, Edwin., (1926) History and Traditions of Niue, Pauahi Bernice Museum, Honolulu.
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Tamē
Ko e koli tamē mena koli auloa he tau fifine mo e tau taane. Kaeke ke kitia e koe e tau fifine ne
nonofo kae tutu e tau taane i tua, ti iloa agataha ai e koe, ko e tamē a ia. Ko e tau vahā nei, kua
fakaaoga e tau leo fakatagitagi kehekehe tuga e tau kitā mo e tau ukulele mo e falu foki. Fa koli e
tame he tau faiagahau tuga e tau mau hoana, tau hifi ulu, tau huki teliga, tau fakaulu fale mo e
fakafeleveiaaga ke he tau fenoga ke he motu.
A tamē is an action type of dance. It is primarily performed by both sexes either standing or in a
seated format. Normally women are seated in a semi- circle formation and men stand behind them34.
It is performed at various ceremonies or functions. Tamē singing can be accompanied by a ukulele or
guitar or any modern instrument.
The semi-circle formation is often dependent on the size of the group or the venue. On the village
green where there is ample space - straight rows with women in front and men at the back is just
as common and often preferred if the audience number is faily large.
Figure 2: Niue High School at ASB Polyfest 2009 retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/margaretvickers/6677958425
3 Chapman, T. & Enetama, M., (2008) Government of Niue Department of Niue Cultural Heritage, Alofi. 4 Smith, S.P., (1909) Niue The Island and Its People, Institute of Pacific Studies, Suva.
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Tafeauhi
Kua galo fakaoti e koli nei. Fakaoti mo e nakai liu ke koli ha koe tau pule fakamisionale. Fakamau
pehē ko e koli tafeuhi, kua koli viko fakaveliveli he afi kakā ke he ta he palau mo e ta he tau nafa, e
tau fifine mo e tau taane tino kula. Ko e tau kakano ia ne fakaoti ai he tau misionale e koli nei.
It is no longer performed due to missionary influences. Tafeuhi is described as a dance where people
would dance around the burned open fire to the beats of the drums barely with clothes5.
Meke
Ko e koli talaga foou a nei. Fakalata ko e kamata e koli nei ha koe tau fenoga he tau tagata Niue
ke he tau motu mamao ke gahua ki ai. Igatia ni e tau maaga mo e ha lautolu a tau puhala koli mo e
hopo he meke. Pihia foki mo e tau puhala ta nafa poke fakaaoga he tau gati apa/sini falaoa. Koli e
meke ke he taha fakamatapatuaga tuga e moui he tagata Niue mo e loga atu foki. Ko e tau koli
fakataitai ke he tau matagahua ne matapatu e meke ki ai.
Meke is a newly introduced dance as a result of labour migration6. Villages differ in the way how they
perform the meke. They are easily differentiated by the movements of their feet according to their
drum beats. They either use a slit drum (nafa) or a tin of cabin bread biscuits. Meke is performed to a
theme, e.g. Uga Hunting. It is believed that meke was introduced as a result of labour migration.
Fiauhi
Koli e fiauhi hagaao ki a ia ne mate. Nakai lahi e maamaaga poke tau fakamauaga ke he koli nei.
It was a dance performed over the dead. Not much is known about this dance.
5 Loeb, Edwin., (1926) History and Traditions of Niue, Bernice Pauahi Museum, Honolulu pp.123-24. 6 Aleke Fa’avae, Ioane., (2013) Niue Performing Arts Vagahau Niue Class Notes, Pasifika Education Centre, Auckland.
PONATAKI, 52
Koli mo e Lologo Vahā Tuai
Ko e tau koli mo e lologo tuai laulahi ke uhu ke he taha ni e faga leo. Falu a tau lologo tuai na uhu
fakaleo kehekehe.
These are chants. These are done according to the type of chants and how they are sung.
Koli Vahā Foou
Contemporary dance are a fusion of introduced versions or types or mixtures of two or more.
These are contemporary dance. These are a combination of various fusions of international and
Pacific dances.
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Tau Tufuga Gahua Lima | Arts and Crafts
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners should be able to:
Identify some Niue arts and crafts items.
Use expressions for shapes, sizes, and colours to describe the arts and crafts.
Vocabulary – Tau kupu / higoa
akau telie telie wood
foufou fiti floral headband
kato bag, basket
lalaga weaving
lau fā pandanus leaf
lili table-mat
nafa wooden slit drum
potu pāogo a coarsely woven mat
potu tanini a finely woven mat
palau drum
pulou hat
tia stitch / weave / weaving
talaga to make / to fashion / to create
maō strong / hard
pakafā square
veliveli round
Weaving:
Weaving is a popular craft activity for women in Niue. Some men weave, too.
Lalaga and tia are two popular techniques.
The lalaga (warp and weft closed weave) technique is used by many other cultures. Different
cultures use different materials.
The tia style open weave is shared with other Pacific cultures. It’s a process of fashioning “eyes”
that is somewhat similar to crocheting and knitting, though it is not done in precisely the same
way. It is sometimes also called stitched weaving.
Lili (table-mats) are often stitch-weaved, for example.
Weavers in Niue mainly use lau fā (pandanus leaves), kaniu (coconut leaf mid-ribs), lau niu
(coconut leaves), and kala fou (fou fibres).
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Weavers often use previously prepared fou (wild hibiscus) fibres. They also use the fibres and
thin roots of the ovava (banyan) tree.
Niue weavers in New Zealand obtain these traditional materials from Niue, but they also use
harakeke (New Zealand flax) in place of lau fā (pandanus), although it is a rougher fibre to work
with. Today, weavers also use modern materials, such as plastic strips, plastic bread bags, raffia,
wool, and string.
Other Craft Items People make jewellery, including necklaces and bracelets, from shells, beads,
and hihi (little yellow land snail) shells. Items made from hihi are prized gifts because the shells
are so small and a necklace made with hihi takes a long time to make. People pierce holes in them
9 183 HAIA! An Introduction to Vagahau Niue by hand with a needle.
A necklace made of the rarer red and white hihi shells is especially valuable. Carvers make nafa
(wooden slit drums) from the wood of several different kinds of trees in Niue (including the kieto
and the telie).
To lahi e makaka moe hakahakau he tau tagata Niue he talaga, mo e gahua ke he loga he tau
tufuga lima kehekehe.
Hanai falu a tau tufuga gahua lima ha Niue.
Tau gahua lima tuitui:
Tau gahua lima lalaga / tia / tui:
Tau tufuga lima he tau tagata taane:
Tau ie pili
Tau afī uluga
Tau ie laulau
Tau koloa mena tui
Kato
Pulou
Lili
Potu
Pola
Polapola
Kahoa
Kapa pola
Katoua
Tika
Tao
Tui vai
Vaka
Tipunu akau
Kumete
Akau hi ika
Fohe vaka
Hulu
Toume mo heke toume
PONATAKI, 55
Here are some images of some Niuean Crafts.
Katoua
Tau potu paogo
Tau lili tia
PONATAKI, 56
Kato tōtō
Pulou lau niu
Polu tia veliveli
PONATAKI, 57
Vaka
Pulou tapu
Polu tia
Kato lalaga
PONATAKI, 58
kahoa hihi
Afī uluga
Ie pili
PONATAKI, 59
Tika
Kapapola / iliili launiu
Pola faahi ua
PONATAKI, 60
Nafa
Foufou
Kato tapola
PONATAKI, 61
Learning Activity:
Choose the correct name for each image below:
Katoua Tau potu Lili tia Polu tia Afi uluga
Kato tapola Kato tōtō Pulou launiu Polu tia veliveli Ie pili
Kapapola/ Iliili launiu
Vaka Pola faahi ua Kato lalaga Kahoa hihi
Pulou Tapu Nafa Foufou Tika
____________
____________
____________
PONATAKI, 62
____________
____________
____________
____________
PONATAKI, 63
____________
____________
____________
____________
PONATAKI, 64
____________
____________
____________
____________
PONATAKI, 65
____________
____________
____________
____________
PONATAKI, 66
SECTION 4: SPIRITUALITY7
Liogi he Iki | The Lord’s prayer
Ha mautolu a Matua na e, ha ha he lagi, kia tapu hau a higoa.
Kia hoko mai hau a kautu. Kia eke hau a finagalo ke he lalolagi nei, tuga ne eke ke he lagi,
Kia foaki mai e koe ke he aho nai ha mautolu a tau mena kai, ke lata ke he aho taha.
Kia fakamagalo e koe kia mautolu ha mautolu a tau hala, tuga a mautolu ne fakamagalo atu kia
lautolu ne eke fakakelea mai kia mautolu. Aua neke uta e koe a mautolu ke he kamatamata, ka e
laveaki mai e koe a mautolu mai he tau mena kelea. Ha ko e mena ha ha ia koe e kautu mo e
malolo, katoa mo e fakahekeaga tukulagi, Amene.
Tau Liogi ma e tau fanau ikiiki | Prayers for young children
Ko e Atua nae, lagomatai mai ke fakalofa ni au kia au, ti fakaalofa pihia ni ke he falu a tagata. Ke he higoa ha Iesu, amene.
Father God, help me to love myself and then to love others in the same way. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Ko e Atua nae, lagomatai mai au ke taute e tau mena mitaki, mo e vagahau e tau kupu mitaki ke lagomatai aki haaku a magafaoa. Ke he higoa ha Iesu, amene.
Father God, help me use my words and my actions to build up my family. Help us to be kind to each other. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Ko e Atua nae, lagomatai mai au ke omaoma ke he haaku a tau matua mo lautolu kua leveki mai ia au ke he aho nei. Ke he higoa ha Iesu, amene.
Father God, help me to obey my parents and the grown ups who watch over me today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Ko e Atua nae, kua fakaheke e au Haau a mua ue atu. Kua fakaheke au kia Koe ha kua fakalofa a koe kia au. Fakaue au ke he tau mena mitaki oti kua taute mo e foaki e Koe ma haaku. Ke he higoa ha Iesu, amene.
Father God, I praise You for Your greatness. I praise you because you love me. I thank You for all the good things You have done for me and given me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
7 TAU MENA FAKA-AGAGA | SPIRITUALITY
PONATAKI, 67
Falu Lologo Mahani | Some Well Known Hymns or Songs
Mitaki e tau mena oti Ko e haku Motu
Metaki e tau mena oti A Iehova ne eke; Kua puke namo e lagi, Mo e lalolagi nei. Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua! Kua kitia hana mana, Kua fakakikila mai Hana totonu mo e iloilo Kua eke ai e tau mena nei. Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua! Ka e nakai tu fakaoti E tau mena kua eke; To huhunu a taha aho E lalolagi nei; Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne! Hanei, kia fehol A tautolu kia Iesu, Kia talia e ia ni, Mo e lilifu a tautolu Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua!
Ko e haku motu ne fanau ai Kua mitaki a Niue Kua moua mai luga E kotofaga uho nei
Niue, (Niue) Ala mai, (Ala mai) Taute ai nei, (Taute ai nei) E fakaue, (E fakaue) Ke he pule kua moua ai Haku motu ne fanau ai.
Kua mitaki a Niue Ko e haku motu tu taha Kua manako au ki ai Tama Niue ala mai,
PONATAKI, 68
Falu Lologo Mahani | Some Well Known Hymns or Songs – continued
Uhoaki a tautolu (264)
Ke fiafia ke he tala kia Iesu
Uhoaki a tautolu, Nukua moua mai E kautu pule totonu, E kautu mai luga Kua mole atu e tau hau Ke he vaha tuai; Nakai iloa e tautolu, E kautu mai luga Ka ko tautolu oti nei, Kua kitekite ai, E pule fakalofa nei, E kautu mai luga. To tiaki e tautolu E tau mena tuai; Ka e talia fakatonu E kautu mai luga.
Ke fiafia ke he tala kia Iesui. Kua toka e ia e lagi I luga, Ti haele mai a ia ke mate ma tatutolu. Ke fiafia ke he tala kia Iesu.
Ko Iesu haia kua uta kehe ai Haku tau mahani mo e hehe Mo e fakamoui ai; Ko Iesu haia ne haele mai i luga' Kia nofo au mo ia tukulagi.
Ke fiafia ke he tala kia Iesu. Tau mena ne poaki mai e ia ke taute; Tagata kua matapouli, mo ia ne lolelole, Kua malolo a lautolu kia Iesu.
Ko Iesu haia kua uta kehe ai, & c.
Ke fiafia ke he tala kia Iesu. Tau mena ne fakatonu mai e ia, Kua iloa ai e mahani ke taute au Ke fiafia mai a ia kia au.
Ko Iesu haia kua uta kehe ai, & c.
PONATAKI, 69
Falu Lologo Mahani | Some Well Known Hymns or Songs – continued
Mitaki e tau mena oti
Ha i ai ke he Lagi (129)
Mitaki e tau mena oti A Iehova ne eke; Kua puke namo e lagi, Mo e lalolagi nei. Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua! Kua kitia hana mana, Kua fakakikila mai Hana totonu mo e iloilo Kua eke ai e tau mena nei. Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua! Ka e nakai tu fakaoti E tau mena kua eke; To huhunu a taha aho E lalolagi nei; Fakaue a! Fakaue kia ia ne mua! Hanei kia fehola A tautolu kia Iesu, Kia talia e ia ni, Mo e lilifu a tautolu Ke he aho! Ka haele mai ai Iesu.
Ha i ai ke he lagi ha talu motu; Ka e nakai ko e lalolagi I hinei. Kua fakamavehe mo e tiaki ai, E fonua malaia ha I ai nei. Hanei, kua tauteute mau ki ai, Mo e leo atu ke he matagi mitaki, Kia hiki e vaka, mo e fakatu e la, Ke o atu ai ke he motu I luga. Ko e motu ha na kia hoko ki ai, Ko tautolu katoa kua tanaki mai nei, Ke fakalataha mo e ha talu Iki, Ko ia ne taute ia ma tautolu nei.
PONATAKI, 70
Falu Lologo Mahani | Some Well Known Hymns or Songs – continued
Toli toli hake he mouga
Omai kia Iesu neke mule (196)
Toli toli hake he mouga mo e tau mata fiafia Kalo ke he mai a he malaia Ka e ono atu ke he Atua Toli toli hake he mouga ko koe mo au.
O mai kia Iesu neke mule; Ko e puhala kua fakakite Ko ia mo tautolu ki hinai, Kua pehe ke omai; To feleveia mo e fiafia, Ka mea e loto he tau hala To tuuta Iesu, mo koe, Ke tukulagi ai. Kua pehe mai e Fakamoui, Toka au e fanau ke o maia Kia talia e tautolu a ia; Talia fakaave. To feleveia mo e fiafia, &c. Kia manatu a, ko ia hanai; Ko e hana kupu mitaki, Kia fanogonogo a ki ai, Ma fanau na e, omai To feleveia mo e fiafia, &c.
PONATAKI, 71
Tau Kupu Mahuiga he Tohi Tapu | Important words in the Bible
God Atua creation tufugatia sin hala /agahala angel agelu revelation fakakiteaga covenant maveheaga birthright tufaaga he uluaki famine vaha hoge blessing fakamonuinaaga passover paseka first born tama uluaki mercy fakaalofa noa commandments tau fakatufono Sabbath Aho Sapati glory lilifu offering poa choice fifiliaga wisdom lotomatala repentance fakatokihala thanksgiving fakahekeaga redeemer liu fakamoui righteousness tututonu anoint fakauku rejoicing fakahekeaga salvation fakamouiaga judgement fakafiliaga spirit agaga prayer liogi youth fuata shepherd leveki mamoe comfort faka mafanatia freedom tokanoaga reconciliation fakafeiloaga enemies tau fi endurance fakamakamaka slave tagata fakatupa Kingdom Kautu witness fakamooli trust tua faith fakamooli
PONATAKI, 72
Talahauaga, Ma e Aho, Puhala Fakapuloa | Quotes, Daily use, Social Media
Ko e Tau Fakatai 3: kupu 5:6
Kia tua a koe kia Iehove mo e haau a loto katoa; ka e aua neke falanaki a koe ke he haau a pulotu. Kia manatu e koe a ia ke he haau a tau puhala oti, ti fakahakohako ai e ia haau a tau puhala.
Proverbs 3: verses 5:6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submits to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Luka 10:27
Kia fakaalofa atu a koe ke he Iki haau a Atua, mo e haau a loto katoa, mo e haau a agaaga katoa, mo e haau a malolo katoa, mo e haau a manatu katoa; ke fakaalofa atu foki a koe ke he tagata ne katofia
mo koe, ke tuga ni a koe kia koe.
Luke 10:27 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and
with all your mind; and, Love your neighbor as yourself.
Ioane 3:16
Ne kua pihia e fakalofa mai he Atua ke he lalolagi, kua ta mai ai hana Tama fuataha, kia nakai mate taha ne tua kia ia, ka kia moua e ia e moui tukulagi.
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Teutaronome 5:16
Kia fakalilifu a koe ke he haau a matua taane mo e haau a matua fifine, tuga ne poaki mai e Iehova haau a Atua kia koe, kia loga ai haau a tau aho, kia monuina ai foki a koe ke he motu kua foaki mai e
Iehova haau a Atua kia koe.
Deuteronomy 5:16
Honour your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
PONATAKI, 73
Iakopo 4:10
Kia fakatokolalo a mutolu ki mua he Iki, to fakamatalahi e ia a mutolu
James 4:10
Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will lift you up.
Filipi 4:13
Kua maeke ia au e tau mena oti kana ke he fakamalolo mai a Keriso kia au.
Phillipians 4: 13
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength
Filipi 4:4
Kia fiafia a mutolu ke he Iki, aua neke noa, to liu foki talaatu e au, kia fiafia a mutolu.
Phillipians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again rejoice!
Ioane 14:1
Aua neke fakaatukehe ha mutolu a tau loto, kia tua a mutolu ke he Atua, ati tua mai a foki kia au.
John 14:1
Do not let your hearts be troubled, trust in God and also trust in me.
Salamo 111:10
Ko e matakutaku kia Iehova, ko e kamataaga haia he iloilo.
Psalm 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
Iakopo 4: 8
Kia fakatata atu a mutolu ke he Atua, ti fakatata mai a ia kia mutolu.
James 4: 8
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
PONATAKI, 74
Lologo Fakalilifu he Motu ko Niue | Niue National Anthem
Ko e Iki he lagi
Ko e Iki he lagi Kua fakalofa mai
Ki Niue nai; ( ki Niue nai) Kua pule totonu E Patuki to Atu;
Kua pule okooko, Ki Niue nai.
Ki Niue nai, ki Niue nai Ki Niue nai, ki Niue nai Ki Niue nai, ki Niue nai
Ki Niue nai Kua pule okooko,
Ki Niue nai. Kua pule ki Niue nai.
PONATAKI, 75
SECTION 5: BEING NIUEAN IN AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND
How can you tell a Niuean?
What we are finding and this is supported by to Statistics New Zealand8 (Stats NZ) data is there is
a changing face (and this will continue) of Niueans living in New Zealand.
More and more Niueans are born in New Zealand. More and more are diverse in their ethnic
make up. More and more are likely to speak English than the mother tongue of Niue – vagahau
Niue.
So the question then becomes, what makes a Niuean, Niuean? How do you know or tell a Niuean?
Why are Niueans so proud to be Niuean?
There are over 20, 000 Niueans living in New Zealand according to Stats NZ 2013 data and the
majority of Niueans live in Auckland.
The majority of those who identified as full Niuean are likely to fall into the 65+ age group.
More and more young people are passionate about being Niuean.
The question is ‘what are they proud about?’, ‘why are they so proud to be Niuean?’, ‘what
connects them to their Niuean language, culture and identity?’
These are the questions we want more and more Niueans dialoguing over.
© Niue Youth Network, Auckland
8 http://www.stats.govt.nz/Census/2013-census/profile-and-summary-reports/ethnic-
profiles.aspx?request_value=24712&tabname=Populationandgeography
PONATAKI, 76
There are many ways to encourage being Niuean in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Discuss some of the important cultural aspects you have experienced or practised at home that
help encourage your Niuean identity?
• Do you think the cultural practices are the same here in New Zealand compared to our Niueans
living on Niue?
• How can you share and promote being Niuean with your friends and community?
• Based on your answers to the above questions, how can you ensure that you continue to grow
and maintain your identity as a Niuean person?
• What are some ways you can identify a Niuean person?
• How do you think the Niuean culture and language is taught that won’t compromise one’s
individuality?
PONATAKI, 77
NIUE TAOGA | NIUEAN TREASURES (contemporary and traditional) FROM
TE PAPA MUSEUM
Te Papa has kindly supported the development of this resource by contributing content on Niue
items in Te Papa’s Collections Online. To link to range of Niue treasures: http://bit.ly/2bGaHaN
Examples:
Pulou (hat): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/437908 and
http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/1372470
Potu: http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/1439464
Kato fuakina (ornamental basket): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/421287
Kato (basket): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/92006 and
http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/254883
Patutiti (skirt): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/91225 and
http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/91223
Pipi (human hair belt): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/204175
Tao (spear): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/1043851
Sika (dart): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/450223
Katoua (club): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/162335
Iiili (fan): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/450257 and
http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/421329
Octopus lure: http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/450214
Lei (garland): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/91229
Tapulu fou (dress): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/96524
Lili (wall hanging): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/421344
Hiapo (tapa cloth): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/86107
Maka (throwing stone): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Topic/2228
Male dance costume: http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/707162
Tapulu (female dance costume): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/707160
Tiputa (poncho): http://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/Object/161445
PONATAKI, 78
Blogs
Remembering Tufuga Holoatu Lagatule (1938-2016) – leader among the Pacific
communities of Christchurch: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2016/08/30/remembering-tufuga-
holoatu-lagatule-1938-2016-leader-among-the-pacific-communities-in-christchurch/
The beautiful Kahoa Hihi of Niue Island: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2014/10/16/the-
beautiful-kahoa-hihi-of-niue-island-niue-language-week-2014/
The Ultimate Niuean Warrior!: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/10/18/the-ultimate-niuean-
warrior-niuean-language-week-2013/
“You know you are a Niuean when…”: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/10/17/you-know-
you-are-a-niuean-when-niuean-language-week-2013/
Behold the Coconut!: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/10/16/behold-the-coconut-niuean-
language-week-2013/
A poncho to cover that torso!: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/10/15/a-poncho-to-cover-
that-torso-niuean-language-week-2013/
All about the Rock: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2013/10/14/all-about-the-rock-niuean-
language-week-2013/
Niuean Katoua (club): http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2012/10/12/niuean-katoua-club/
A rare plastic bread bag hat: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2012/10/11/vagahau-niue-niue-
language-week-a-rare-plastic-bread-bag-hat/
Niue: the Rock of Polynesia: http://blog.tepapa.govt.nz/2012/10/09/niue-the-rock-of-
polynesia/
Tales from Te Papa series
Recycled Plastic Art (about making traditional arts and crafts using new materials):
http://talesresource.tepapa.govt.nz/resource/091.html
Tapa cloth (the wearing of tapa): http://talesresource.tepapa.govt.nz/resource/038.html
PONATAKI, 79
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We want to thank the members of the Niuean community who helped co-design this resource for
Niueans in New Zealand and worldwide. We are very appreciative of your time, energy, content,
experiences and for holding strong to our Vagahau Niue.
Adrian Mui, Alofi
Carissa McCay, Mutalau
Carlos Tupu, Tuapa
Ioane Aleke, Mutalau
Nora Douglas, Hakupu
Lynn Pavihi, Avatele
Leki Jackson-Bourke, Hakupu
Rennie Douglas, Avatele
Rev. Thomas Kauie, Tamakautoga
Tina O’Halloran, Alofi.
Thank you to the team at Te Papa and Blackboard Jungle, for your contribution to the resource.
Blackboard Jungle has some great posters with useful greetings, statements, questions and
answers too. The full selection is available is on their website.
A special acknowledgement of the photograph of our Niuean Tupuna, Taualiki Faito Iapana on
the front cover.
Fakaaue lahi for your support we wouldn’t be able to put this resource together.
PONATAKI, 80
EVALUATION
We are very keen to get some feedback on the resource. We have put together some questions
that could help us:
Was this resource helpful in connecting Niueans to their language, culture and identity?
What did you use the resource for?
What did you like about the resource?
Any other comments?
Send your feedback to:
[email protected] - in the subject line write – Feedback: Ponataki Niue Language Educational
Resource.
PONATAKI, 81
2016 NIUE LANGUAGE WEEK POSTER
Story behind the 2016 Niue Language Week Poster:
The image of the island and sea is taken from the lookout on the Coast of Niue Island’s -
Opaahi, Alofi South. The canoe and paddle belong to Taumafai Fuhinui.
The angle of the picture is more focused towards the sea with the vaka (canoe) taking
prominence.
The vaka is positioned in a neutral position - so that it can either be leaving (symbolising the
migration in the early days) or returning (symbolising the homecoming of the next and
current generation).
The choice of the vaka is to symbolize one of the major narratives facing modern day Niue
and that is the population decline since the early 1970's due to migration.
So the vaka is symbolic of the many Niueans who left the shore of Niue many years ago.
The vaka is made made out of Vagahau Niue words as a symbolism that no matter where
these Niueans have migrated too - the majority to NZ – that at the foundation of their
identity, voyage and journey is their language.
Migration led to mixed ethnicity marriages formed in new shores.
The next generation of Niueans is multi-ethnic and diverse, so we questioned whether
there was truly one face that spoke to all Niueans.
But the vaka that is shaped with the vagahau Niue words in the sea, is representative of the
narrative of how they came to be. The importance of being anchored in your language
wherever you are in the world.
So the story is the connection and the link between the old and new, the migrants and the
offspring.
PONATAKI, 82
The hope was that the image would generate discussion about what the present day face of
Niue was. And the emphasis on the language being practised and used is valuable in the form
identity.
The vaka is also an image that is relevant to the Niueans who are still on the island. As it
represents a mode of transportation and used for fishing.
The vaka image also lends itself to the metaphor – “teach a man to fish and he'll eat for a
lifetime” - so a man who teaches his family vagahau Niue feeds into the sustaining his
language, culture and identity for the next generation.
The vaka also represents the notion that in order for Niueans to survive on the water and in
life, the language is the link to them keeping that afloat in amongst the ocean but also in their
identity as a Niuean.
The choice to place it in the modern medium of 'Instagram' makes the image recognisable
and interactive with the next generation - whom is our target audience in carrying on the
vagahau Niue, who are the product of the migration.
We need to continue to look at ways to use the current modes of communication (i.e. Social
media) to get our message across so it generates interest, engagement and discussion.
PONATAKI, 83