Trinity Catholic College’s touching tribute to student at Otago Polyfest

Among the cultural celebrations at Otago Polyfest, there has also been a number of performances dedicated to a popular student who tragically passed away in May.

Dressed in white and blue, the students of Trinity Catholic College performed a medley of Pacific dances, including a special Cook Islands tribute to 16 year-old Enere Mclaren-Taana.

“This performance was dedicated to the brother Enere Mclaren-Taana,” said Trinity Colleges’ Tangata Moana leader Isaako following their performance.

“He was supposed to perform with us, it’s quite sad but I think that’s where a lot of our passion for this, our dances, our Cook Island pieces came for.

“I think the whole spirit of our group raised throughout the weeks in remembrance of him.”

Photo/Joseph Safiti.

Malianata, who was another leader of the group, said it was a special moment to take the stage.

“This is definitely dedicated to Enere and his family. A brother, a friend, a really good mate.

“We could feel him when we were performing. Enere, I hope you’re up there.”

Trinity College was one of several schools making tributes to the late student, placing photos in remembrance of Mclaren-Taana at front-stage.

The two leaders said their performance was also an important reminder of celebrating culture in the South Island.

“Thank you guys for coming to support us, it means a lot. I know we’re a small school not the biggest school out there but it means a lot to see all those beautiful faces out there tonight,” said Isaako.

Malianata added that events like Polyfest are a good reminder of what unites Pacific communities.

“I reckon my uso just put it into better words than I could. One thing I could say is thank you everyone for supporting us, and remember we’re not divided by the ocean, we’re connected by it.” said Malianata.

“All those beautiful cultures, that’s what we are.”