Mangere, AKL 2:45PM - A first of its kind Polynesian Night Market event held at the Mangere Arts Centre on Friday 21 August went off with hiss and a roar! It was estimated 2000+ people walked through the doors of the Mangere Arts Centre with early arrivals from 5pm! The doors were to open at 6pm.

It was a rainy night but it did not dampen people's mood and enthusiasm to witness this first ever display of island shopping, food, culture and entertainment all under one roof at night. It was overall a spectacular  experience!

The success of the evening was not just in the numbers of attendees but it was also for the vendors and exhibitors that showcased on the night.
 
The initiative was a pilot for the PolyX Ltd’s Polynesian Experience Cultural Tours that was originally intended for overseas tourists. Due to Covid-19 and the closure of our borders, the PolyX team needed to shift gears quickly or face an abrupt death for the business.
 
“The turnout, gave us confirmation that the locals, both Pacific and non-Pacific are keen for our Pacific kai, entertainment and its traditions being displayed for all to enjoy which created an atmosphere of being at home, in the islands, which is in line with the theme of the Markets of Bringing the Islands to you”, says Zeprina Fale, CEO of PolyX.
 
“People travelled from across Auckland, and as far as Hamilton to attend the markets which shows the strength of our product and brand, as well as the marketing reach. Messages of support from other regions eager to have the PolyX team bring the market to their regions”, Zeprina continues.
 
Tuiloma Gayle Pec "Even in the pouring rain, our Pasifika community have come out to support our Pasifika businesses...thank you for an amazing event".
Andrew Waipouri "Awesome night, Tino pai rawa atu…need more of this in Tamaki Makaurau".
Teena Enoka "I love that my beautiful bag was woven by a blind man".
Le-Ata "When is the next one? We look forward to it".
 
The promotional posted on social media were viewed by over 30,000 and the event page reached over 60,000 in a space of 3 weeks leading up to the event!

​PolyX Ltd would like to thank its partners, collaborators and volunteers who helped bring the initiative to life.
 
“Thank you for believing in us, we could not have done this without your support and prayers”.
 
Pacific Media Network – Major Media Sponsor
The Pacific Business Hub – Strategic Partner/Social Media Marketing
Bluwave Galumoana – Promotional Videos
Wowza Digital Marketing – Digital Marketing
The Generator – Contributor
Radio Samoa, Base FM, Niche Medie – Promoters
Pacific Business Trust – Sponsor
LifeChurch Manurewa, Encounter Church Avondale, PIC Manukau – Helpers & Volunteers
MBrace Dance Group, Tahimana Fire Dancers, TeMana Performing Arts – Performers 
Tulau'ega Mareko (Traditional Samoan Tattooing), Tautua INK (Contemporary Tattooing), Weaving Mamas; Miriama Siitia, Tapi Ah Leong, Tolo & Gese – Exhibitors 
 
Food & Market Vendors – Chefs on Wheels, Kozi Kais (Niue), Hebrew Cafe (Fijian Indian), Samaori Coffee, Nations Fundraising, WulfFale, Kelston AOG, Leaosiitia, LIt Candy, Sam's Pop Corn, Te Wanagana Aotearoa, Sei Oriana, Domoni, Grace’s Handmade Blessings, Under the Bird, Manuia Creations & Travel, Ota Eight, Made in the Neighborhood, Le-Ata, Nesian Phresh Designs, Koloa & TAMA.
 
PolyX looks forward to celebrating with you and bringing you all new experiences to showcase our melting pot of Polynesian cultures in Aotearoa. Their next event is scheduled to take place on 21 August at the Mangere Arts Centre.

A Polynesian Night Market and Exhibition is scheduled to take place tomorrow Friday 17 July from 6PM-10PM at the Mangere Arts Centre.

Local Tourism Operator PolyX Ltd are excited to present a new tourist attraction and cultural experience right here in Tamaki Makaurau. A family friendly, free entry event during the school holidays.
 
It is a Polynesian Night Market that promises an exhibition to delight all the senses.

"We have brought together a talent of local creatives, surrounded them with the sights, sounds and delicacies of the Pacific for everyone to enjoy under the stars", says Zeprina. 
 
PolyX Ltd is adapting to the challenges brought about by the Covid19 pandemic, and the overwhelming impact to tourism here by creating other opportunities for domestic tourists, all the while keeping on brand with live cultural entertainment.
 
The night market is the first of its kind. Make sure you head on down to the epicentre of Auckland’s thriving creative community at the Mangere Arts Centre tomorrow evening.
 
What you can expect to experience

• Incredible, mouth-watering Pacific kai 
• Pacific inspired fine art, quality crafted and bespoke products, expertly woven natural mats, textiles, and prints
• Cultural inspired homeware, fashion, and accessories 
• Well-being products, fragrances, pure quality oils and so much more
• Live entertainment: fire dancing, the sights and sounds of Aotearoa and the Pacific under the stars

• A rare look into authentic ceremonial practices like the Kava and Tatau (tattooing)

For more details about this event, contact Zeprina Fale on 021963301 or zeprina@polyx.co.nz