Successful Projects announced for 2025 Moana Reo Media Fund

Pacific Media Network and the Ministry for Pacific Peoples are proud to announce the successful applicants of the second and final round of the Moana Reo Media Fund supporting media projects in Pacific languages in Aotearoa.

The Fund opened on 1 July to projects that promote and embrace Pacific languages across a variety of platforms, with a focus on building skills, experience and creative capabilities of young and emerging Pacific storytellers.

In response to the strong interest in the first round, this year’s funding categories were expanded to include Taian Kario n Ototo ao Anene - Music Projects, bringing the categories to four in total.

A total of $1.1 million has been awarded to 19 projects, spanning across the three categories, covering nine Pacific languages and multiple media formats. Over 70% of the projects also involve strong leadership or involvement of young Pacific creatives, and a total of 98 eligible applications with a total of $8.1 million was requested in this final round.

The successful applicants are:

Polōketi fakailoga - Signature Project

Measina Moana Reo by Tikilounge Productions

Ma e tau fuata - Youth Audience

Fasi EVERYBODY! by Plus64; Ta Leqa - Level up your vosa! by Elizabeth Koroivulaono/Tiny Fijian Films; Close to Home by Hanalei Temese-Foliaki; Tupulaga Tokelau: Behind the Festival by Mafutaga Tupulaga Tokelau i Aukilani; Warm Pacific Singles X Talk To Tingle by M2S1 Films

Porokaramu tukeke - Diverse Projects

Tamariki Kanga by Kuki Learning Ltd; Serataki noqu vosa – Fijian Hymns Reimagined by Elizabeth Koroivulaono; Pasifika Proud - Lea Faka-Tonga by Fua Creative Limited; MANAVA Toku Leo by Pacific Vision Aotearoa Trust; ASMR Vagahau by ONZ Limited; Atafu Centennial Aotearoa Journey by Atafu Tokelau Community Group Inc; Southside Gardens by Nine Islands Media

Taian Kario n Ototo ao Anene - Music Projects

Pasifika Extended Play by Island Vibes LTD; Tupuola by Katerina "Tree" Vaifale-Manu; Tā Mē - The Revival! by Strictly Brown; Koloa Tukufakaholo (Legacy) by Swiss; Tangi Reo – The Cry of the Language by William Hakaoro; PINE PĒ by Rizván

Pacific Media Network (PMN) CEO Don Mann says the calibre of applications remains exceptionally high, reflecting the depth and diversity of Pacific creative talent.

“Over the last two years, we’ve seen a consistent and growing demand for content in our Pacific languages. This year’s applications not only reaffirm that desire but also showcase a rich spectrum of ideas and creators passionate about representing our communities through authentic storytelling”.

“Last year we supported 16 projects, and this year with the same funding we’re proud to support 19 projects. We’re committed to amplifying work that enriches the media landscape and speaks directly to our communities”.

Secretary for Pacific Peoples, Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone says, “The Moana Reo Media Fund has shown the strength of Pacific storytelling when our languages and cultures are placed at the heart of creative projects.”

“Across two rounds, the Fund has supported projects that strengthen our languages, grow skills and build visibility for Pacific voices in media.”

“What stands out is the leadership of young Pacific creatives, who are shaping stories that speak to today and carry our cultures forward. This year’s recipients continue that momentum, and I look forward to seeing their work inspire audiences here in Aotearoa and across the Pacific.”

About Pacific Media Network

Pacific Media Network (PMN) is the premier provider of quality Pacific content in New Zealand and the operating arm of The National Pacific Media Trust. PMN provides space for all Pacific People to access, explore, strengthen and celebrate Pacific identity, language and culture and in doing so contributes to resilient, confident, healthy, prosperous, thriving Pacific communities.

Our multi-media offerings include 531pi, Niu FM, PMN News, PMN Cook Islands, PMN Niue, PMN Tonga, PMN Samoa, PMN Fiji, PMN Rotuma, PMN Kiribati, PMN Tokelau, PMN Tuvalu and PMN Solomons.

For more information contact funding@pmn.co.nz

About the Ministry for Pacific Peoples

The Ministry is the Government’s principal advisor on policies and interventions aimed at improving outcomes for Pacific peoples in New Zealand.

We work across government to coordinate and leverage investment in Pacific priorities, to ensure it addresses need and delivers on outcomes.

Media contact: media@mpp.govt.nz