From Samoa to Papakura - Growing a Legacy
Issue: 55
Fa’amalosi Niko Aiga: Polyfest 2026
Samoan roots, Papakura whenua — an aiga living in the Taiao
From Samoa to Papakura — Growing a Legacy
Six years ago, Toafa & Gerry Niko arrived in Aotearoa, bringing deep generational farming knowledge from Samoa. Raised on a family farm with pigs, cattle, chickens, goats, taro, bananas and vegetables, Toafa learned early how to feed, breed, care for animals and supply local markets. Farming isn’t just a skill — it’s his heritage.
Today in Papakura, the Niko aiga are building a sustainable pig‑farming enterprise, registered with NAIT, and raising healthy pigs with pride, integrity and cultural strength.
Stay strong, Niko family — you inspire. ✨Click HERE to view story.
ASB Polyfest 2026 a celebration of 51 years of Polyfest history!
Polyfest theme: “Ko au ko te Taiao! Ko te Taiao ko au!”
🗓️18 - 21 March 2026, Pasifika and Diversity Stage at Manukau Sports Bowl.
Get your tickets here!
Pasifika‑Led. Unmissable. Be There.
Other Opportunities!!
ArtBeat Carnival hits Dargaville for the FIRST time!
🔥 3,000 people expected at Riverside Gardens — an epic opportunity for new stallholders!
📩 Email: events@creativenorthland.com
The Generator Wairoa Hui March 27 & 28
Got an idea that could make a difference in your whānau or community?
Hikirangi Wairoa Brings The Generator as part of Two-Day Rural Business Symposium to Raupunga Raupunga, New Zealand — [March 27th and 28th 2026.
Register HERE!
Find out what benefits and payments you can get from Work and Income if you're eligible. The full list can be found HERE!
Check out our tools and resources to help you pursue the opportunities you want—whether you’re just getting started or already underway.
See more HERE.
Other Funding
Are you a Māori startup founder ready to take your pakihi global?
Excited to share that Tupu is back for 2026 — applications are now open.
Applications open: 24 February – 23rd March.
Westpac NZ is making a $100 million commitment to lending to start-up businesses, the bank says providing a helping hand to small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the country.
Creative NZ provides local funding for arts projects - giving councils money each year to distribute, supporting over 1,800 projects annually. Apply through your local council — closing dates vary by region. Click here for Council websites
Pulse Energy is 100% community owned, has 5x $1,000 grants to offer to community driven projects.
Applications close 20th March. Register Here!
Every week, we share stories of brave steps toward wellbeing and self-employment, even from hardship.
*Click and scroll to end of page to Subscribe to our newsletter & past issues here.
