Vanuatu Bislama Language Week celebrated in Heretaunga Hastings

Heretaunga Hastings is home to many ni-Vanuatu people who return each year through the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. These workers play an important role in the district's horticultural sector while maintaining strong connections with their families and communities in Vanuatu.

To acknowledge Vanuatu Bislama Language Week and celebrate the contribution of the ni-Vanuatu community, Hastings District Libraries led a community celebration in partnership with Hastings District Council. Facilitated by the library's Pasifika Engagement Specialist, with support from library Community Engagement staff and colleagues from Council's Community Development and Events teams, the event brought together local leaders, RSE workers and members of the wider community.

The event began with a formal gathering in the Council Chambers, where speakers, including the Mayor and Chief Executive of Hastings District Council, reflected on the significance of the week and the longstanding relationship between the district and the ni-Vanuatu community. The ceremony concluded with the raising of the Vanuatu flag outside the Council building as more than 150 people joined together to sing the Vanuatu national anthem.

Celebrations then continued at Hastings Library, where attendees enjoyed refreshments, performances and time together with friends and colleagues. Community members shared traditional dances from Malekula, Pentecost and Tanna, while string-band performances encouraged singing, dancing and participation from the crowd.

The event reflected Hastings District Libraries' commitment to building meaningful relationships with the diverse communities that call Heretaunga home. By working alongside the ni-Vanuatu community, employers and pastoral care teams, the library helped create a welcoming space where people could celebrate culture, strengthen connections and feel a sense of belonging.

While the focus of the afternoon was on celebration, library staff also had the opportunity to connect with pastoral care representatives who support ni-Vanuatu workers across the region. Conversations explored ways information about library services, reading opportunities and literacy support could be shared more effectively with workers through trusted workplace and pastoral care networks.

These relationships provide a valuable foundation for future outreach and engagement, helping the library better understand and respond to the needs of seasonal workers living in Heretaunga Hastings.

Through initiatives such as this, Hastings District Libraries continues to support community wellbeing by creating opportunities for connection, cultural celebration and learning. Vanuatu Bislama Language Week provided a meaningful opportunity to recognise the contribution of ni-Vanuatu people to the district while strengthening relationships that will support future literacy, learning and community engagement initiatives.

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