Though from Malaysia, Marvin Latchumanan participates in the New Zealand Club practice learning the haka. Photo by Chad Hsieh
far off, but it affected the language and culture afterward. “Since then, there has been a lot of effort to bring it back. If you lose the language, you lose the culture.” Club members said their Culture Night performance was to showcase te reo Māori through their choral performance. Te Manu Matenga, a freshman from Tauranga, New Zealand, studying music, said she loves her culture and wants everyone to feel the love as well. “New Zealand is filled with so much love for family, not only in person but also in spirit as well. “Our culture is what keeps us eternally close with our loved ones, even to those who
have passed. It makes me proud to be from here because of the endless love we give through song, dance, prayer and service.” Both Metekingi and Matenga agreed devotion to the community and family makes their culture special. They added Culture Night allows others to come together and understand how different upbringings do not have to divide us. Metekingi explained, “Because you love and respect your own culture, treat others like you would treat your own. If I saw someone performing Māori, I would want them to do it respectively, and to do a good job.” After working with other club members at the first Culture Night practice, Metekingi said,
“Seeing everyone get really into it by singing, dancing and paying attention was humbling and touching.You love your own culture, but it’s nice to see someone else loves it too.” Not only are New Zealand natives welcomed to partake in their own culture, but the New Zealand Club members are making efforts to reach out to those who may not be from their home country, said Metekingi. “Everyone is very open and welcoming. The club gives you a grounded place to go to. Don’t be shy about trying something new.” •
Graphic by Brad Carbine
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