Polyfest funding comes under pressure as the Greens pledge $2m amid govt pushback

The future of Polyfest, the world’s largest Pacific schools cultural festival, is under growing pressure as organisers warn funding is becoming harder to secure.

Held every year in Auckland, Polyfest brings together thousands of secondary school students to perform traditional Pacific song and dance. For many families, it is one of the biggest celebrations of Pacific identity in Aotearoa.

But behind the performances, organisers say the cost of keeping the festival running is rising — and funding remains uncertain.

Stephen Hargreaves, a Polyfest Trust member and former chair, says securing financial support has been an ongoing struggle.

“One of the things that we've struggled with as a Trust is getting funding,” Hargreaves told media at Polyfest.

He says the event costs around $2 million to run and organisers have been forced to cover major expenses upfront without guaranteed backing.

Stephen Hargreaves is the principal at Macleans College. Photo/Supplied

“I'd much rather address the fundamental sustainability mechanisms for Polyfest to be sustainable in the future,” Hargreaves said.

“That's why we've given them money to form a business case for the sustainability of this festival, actually.”

The debate has now moved into the political spotlight.

Watch ASB Polyfest's event director Seiuli Terri Leo-Mauu's full interview below.

The Green Party has pledged up to $2 million in funding if elected, a level of support that would exceed current government contributions.

Hargreaves welcomed the announcement. “It’s excellent news. When I heard [about it] I was really excited.”

Green MP Teanau Tuiono says Polyfest is currently underfunded by more than $1 million and the party is committed to closing that gap.

“Often there are gaps in terms of making sure that we get that funding,” Tuiono told media at Polyfest.

“We are committing to make sure that that funding is there and is available, giving the organisers that certainty to make sure that this festival happens every year.”

Greens’ co-leader Marama Davidson who is a Polyfest alumna, says the festival should not be left to rely on uncertain funding.

Teanau Tuiono (far left), Marama Davidson (second from left) and Huhana Lyndon (far right) with students at Polyfest 2026. Photo/Supplied

“This festival brings out the best in our children. It connects us to our ancestors and to our future.”

Davidson says organisers are forced to “scramble” for funding each year despite strong community support.

“That’s really nothing compared to the impact and value that this festival brings every single year.”

The government has pushed back, saying its total contributions is higher than critics suggest.

Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti says more than half a million dollars has been committed across multiple agencies, including $60,000 from MPP.

Speaking to PMN News at Polyfest, he says the focus should be on long-term sustainability rather than simply increasing funding.

“I’d much rather address the fundamental sustainability mechanisms for Polyfest to be sustainable in the future.”

Pacific Peoples Minsiter Dr Shane Reti. Photo/Supplied

While both sides agree on the need for long-term planning, they differ on how much funding is needed now.

Reti says Polyfest remains an important investment in Pacific communities. “Polyfest… is an important celebration of Pacific culture and youth. It showcases the pride and strength of our Pacific young people.”

For organisers, the challenge remains balancing the cultural importance of the festival with the reality of rising costs. And ensuring Polyfest can continue for future generations.