6th - 7th March 2026
7pm - 10pm
Māngere Arts Centre - Ngā Tohu o Uenuku
Exhibition by Three-Times Teuila Festival Siva Afi Champion and Siva Afi Tahiti Women’s International Category Champion 2025.
Meet Our Top Performers
Fa’afetai & Fa’amalo to our 2026 Performers! Congratulations to all our incredible performers and competitors this year. We are so grateful you chose to share your art, passion, and skill with us.
Portraits by Pacifica Arts Centre.
Junior Mix Category 2026
1st Place
Mathias SVENSON.
Tahiti. TE TAMA AHI.
2nd Place
Bailey Siu ARMSTRONG-FROST.
West Auckland – NZ
3rd Place
Toara’i PAN SI GATIEN.
Tahiti.
Intermediate Mix Category 2026
1st Place
Vandross Lloyd Nifae Che PEREZ.
Waikato – NZ.
2nd Place
Jazarrah TALA.
Wellington – NZ.
TAUTUA SIVA AFI.
3rd Place
Mathias Ha'ani ROBERTSON.
West Auckland – NZ.
MANA LE AFI AOTEAROA.
Wāhine Toa Afi Category 2026
1st Place
Emi Iliganoa PRITCHARD
South Auckland – NZ.
SALAAILUA, IVA AND VAIGAGA.
2nd Place
Marley Jane ADAM
Porirua - NZ
TEINE O LE U’AMEA A’ASA.
3rd Place
Portia MEREDITH-NUMIA
West Auckland – NZ
TAHIMANA.
Tama Toa Afi Category 2026
1st Place
Hikitahi PIOKOE
Tahiti
TE TAMA AHI.
2nd Place
Moa jr LUA
Samoa and Porirua - NZ
USO LE AFI.
3rd Place
Suni AUNESE-WHITE
West Auckland – NZ
TAHIMANA.
Celebrating Talent, Tradition and Fire
This pioneering event shines a spotlight on skill, tradition, and passion, a centuries-old traditional art form from Samoa – siva afi/fire knife dancing.
Don’t miss this chance to witness breathtaking performances and support the rising stars of this vibrant tradition.This festival is a celebration of culture, passion, and community. You can expect breathtaking Siva Afi performances, cultural connection and a community atmosphere like no other.
Join us at the festival.
Doors open from 6pm | Performances start from 7pm.
Welcome
Welcome to Seven Years of History
On behalf of everyone who has contributed, performed, and supported this journey, especially our funders and community - we welcome you to Siva Afi Festival 2026.
Looking ahead, the next five to ten years will be crucial in shaping the future of siva afi in Aotearoa. The foundation has been set, but the real work begins now, growing this art form, uncovering hidden talent, and ensuring its place in New Zealand’s cultural landscape.
With many former siva afi performers now calling Aotearoa home, we want Siva Afi Festival to be your event - a space to connect, celebrate, and inspire the next generation.
From Tāmaki Makaurau to the regions, the fire is spreading.
Siva Afi Aotearoa
In 2022 Polynesian Entertainers launched a new enterprise Siva Afi Aotearoa, in recognition of the growing interest and positive impact of the Siva Afi Workshops and Siva Afi Festival. Siva Afi Aotearoa is dedicated to promoting and supporting the art of Samoan fire knife dancing in Aotearoa – www.sivaafiaotearoa.co.nz.
The Siva Afi Festival is a signature event for the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu community and serves as Aotearoa’s annual international fireknife competition. It attracts participants from across the country and the wider Moana.
We proudly acknowledge our partnership with Pacific Arts Centre (Henderson), under the leadership of Jacinda Stowers-Ama, for supporting our tamariki and helping our cultural heritage thrive. We look forward to continuing this relationship for years to come.
Not-for-profit
Siva Afi Aotearoa is a not-for-profit organisation and relies on grant funding and donations to deliver its workshops and annual festivals free of charge for all ages and ethnicities. We encourage you to join us in our commitment to present Pacific Arts to all audiences, and to provide a pathway for young people to create their own successes, resilience, and knowledge. All levels of donation, from $5, $20 or $200 are of value to us –
visit www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/sivaafiaotearoa to donate.
Here’s what you can expect from this year’s festival
DAY ONE
Friday 6 March
7 – 10pm
Juniors and Open Women’s Competition
DAY TWO
Saturday 7 March
7 – 10pm
Intermediate & Open Men’s Competition
Full Festival Programme
Day One
Friday 6 March
7PM - 10PM
6.00pm
Doors open
Food stalls open
7.00pm
MC welcome
Opening prayer by Pastor Joe Fulu.
LE TAUPOU MANAIA AUCKLAND – opening performance.
7.20pm
Guest Speaker
Introduction to Judges
AILAO AFI ACADEMY – workshop demonstration.
Popea Lautala (Siva Afi Exhibition) Three-times Teuila Festival Champion, Samoa.
7.30pm
Introduction – Juniors Competitors (5years to 12years old)
Juniors competition starts.
8.40pm
USO LE AFI (Wellington) The International Siva Afi Competition 2025 Duo 3rd Place. Samoa
8.50pm
Juniors Competition – Awards Ceremony.
9.00pm
Introduction – Wāhine Toa Afi Competitors
WTA Competition starts.
9.30pm
Anuanua Performing Arts Troupe - closing performance
9:40pm – Wāhine Toa Afi Awards Ceremony – Awards Ceremony.
Farewell and closing prayer.
10.00pm
Stage closed.
Day Two
Saturday 7 March
7 - 10PM
6.00pm
Doors open
Food stalls open
7.00pm
MC welcome & karakia
TAONGA O TE MOANA (Northland) – opening performance
7.20pm
Guest Speaker
Introduction to Judges
VILLAGE SIVA AFI (Howick/ Pakuranga) workshop demonstration.
Emi Iliganoa Pritchard (Siva Afi Exhibition) Siva Afi Tahiti 2025 International Women’s Champion.
7.30pm
Introduction – Intermediate Competitors (13 years to 17 years old)
Intermediate competition starts.
8.40pm
TAHIMANA (Auckland) Siva Afi Tahiti 2025 Duo 3rd Place.
8.40pm
Intermediate Competition – Awards Ceremony.
8.50pm
Introduction – Tama Toa Afi Competitors
TTA Competition starts.
9.30pm
MaieSitete Siva - closing performance
9.40pm
TEINE O LE AFI (Auckland/ Wellington) – Siva Afi Tahiti 2025 Group 1st Place.
9.45pm
TTA Competition – Awards Ceremony.
Farewell and closing prayer.
10.00pm
Stage closed.
Meet Our Judges
Judge 1: Rex Tiumalu
USA JUDGE
Rex Tiumalu, born and raised in Orlando, Florida, is a world champion fireknife dancer, emcee, percussionist, and versatile Polynesian entertainer. His artistry has been featured in premier productions including Tihati Productions, the Polynesian Cultural Center, Chief’s Luau, Walt Disney World’s Festival of the Lion King and Spirit of Aloha, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and international circus tours.
A decorated competitor, Rex holds titles as Junior and Intermediate World Fireknife Champion, multiple International Champion honours, and finalist placements at Toa Afi and the World Fireknife Championships. Beyond the stage, he shares his expertise globally through workshops, tutorials, and judging, inspiring the next generation of fireknife artists.
Currently Entertainment Manager at Walt Disney World, co-founder of Hula Afi Entertainment, and leader of Toa Nomads, Rex continues to honour Polynesian traditions while elevating fireknife artistry worldwide
Judge 2: Auimatagi Ainsley Schwalger-Mamea
AUSTRALIA JUDGE
Auimatagi Ainsley Schwalger Mamea walks with the fire quietly, carrying its weight with purpose and grace. Her connection to Siva Afi began in Aotearoa New Zealand in the early 2000s through the forging of nifo’oti, where she developed a deep respect for culture, discipline, and responsibility. She later trained under Tauānu’u Amo Ieriko and Popea Lautala, learning the precision, storytelling, and spirit that give the art its life.
A steadfast pillar behind the scenes, she has long served the Siva Afi community as a quiet unifier and was one of the two pioneers who established Si’o ile Afi – Flames United in Australia, creating a space where fire, people, and purpose could stand together.
Today, Auimatagi practises both nifo’oti welding and Siva Afi purely from passion. As a Director of Le Tā Nifo’oti Academy, she contributes her knowledge, care, and vision to the protection and growth of the art and proudly hails from the village of Malie, with family ties to Moamoa.
Judge 3: Tamaru Colombel
TAHITI JUDGE
Tamaru Colombel is from French Polynesia. He became passionate about siva afi at the age of 17 after watching the Horizon Night Show at the Polynesian Cultural Center. He went on to compete in various competitions in Tahiti, and in 2003 he placed First Runner-Up at the World Fire Knife Championship in Laie, Hawai‘i — becoming the first Tahitian fire knife dancer to place internationally.
Tamaru is a choreographer and is regarded as an innovator, with many modern siva afi movements credited to him. Although this is his first international judging appointment, he has previously served as a siva afi competition judge in French Polynesia.
Associated Judge: Melanie Tia
NEW ZEALAND JUDGE
Melanie Tia has been fire dancing for over 20 years. She was the first female competitor to enter the intermediate division at the World Fireknife Championship in Hawai‘i and won it twice. Melanie is from the village of Siumu and Salelologa, Samoa.
After returning from retirement, she placed first in 2022 in the women’s siva afi category at Lene Leota’s International Siva Afi Competition in Samoa. Most recently, Melanie placed second in the first international women’s competition with Siva Afi Tahiti under the directorship of Tumata Vairaaroa
Junior Mix Competitors
Bailey Siu ARMSTRONG-FROST
Bailey Siu Armstrong-Frost is 11 years old and attends Kelston Intermediate School. Bailey is a member of AKTIVE ZONE and Tahimana. Bailey placed second in the Junior category at the Siva Afi Tahiti International Fire Knife Competition in both 2024 and 2025. At the Siva Afi Festival in 2025, Bailey placed third. Bailey is proud to represent Falealili.
Bastien Tumua TONE
Bastien began fire-knife dancing in 2023, blending heritage with artistic expression. His father is from the Samoan villages of Vaimoso and Lufilufi, and his mother, Camille, is from Paris, France. Inspired by Pacific Island fire legends of courage and transformation, he performed in Samoa in 2025, further deepening his cultural journey.
Jermayn Poasa-Gafa MAUGA
Jermayn Poasa-Gafa Mauga is a proud young man of Tongan and Samoan heritage, representing the villages of Tuana’i, Fasito’otai, Falefa, Vaiala, Lelepa, Manase, and Pukotala, Ha’api. He loves siva afi and has been practicing for years. At just seven years old, he is passionate, resilient, and always pushes himself to improve. Jermayn is excited and looking forward to participating in his first International Siva Afi competition.
Julia PULA-OLO
Julia Pula-Olo is a 12-year-old student from Sister Unitec Academy. Since 2022, Julia has been spinning the nifo ‘oti with Le Taupou Manaia Auckland under the guidance of Tuifa’asisina Korina Lee. Julia proudly represents the villages of Fagali’i, Siumu, Lotofaga, and Lepea in Samoa.
Leikasia LUI-MASOE
Leikasia Lui-Masoe, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Iva, Lauli‘i, and Lefagaoali‘i Asau, is relatively new to the world of siva afi, having been spinning for just one year, with her fire-spinning debut in January. Alongside her journey in siva afi, she has been a dedicated dancer at Tautua for nearly four years, specialising in Siva Samoa.
Malakai “Fire Ant” ASIATA
Malakai “Fire Ant” Asiata, from the villages of Salelologa and Satupaitea and representing Tautua Siva Afi, has been spinning with the group for three years. In 2024, he competed in the Siva Afi Aotearoa competition and captivated audiences at the World Fireknife Competition in Hawai‘i. He further showcased his talents at the Si’o i le Afi event in Brisbane in 2025. Fire Ant has also performed extensively throughout Wellington, engaging in both corporate and community events.
Mathias SVENSON
Mathias Svenson is a 11-year-old from Tahiti. Mathias won first place in the TE AHI TOA competitions in both 2023 and 2024, as well as first place in the SIVA AFI TAHITI competitions in 2024 and 2025. Mathias is happy to be able to travel thanks to fire dancing and is proud to share this passion. In 2025, Mathias placed second at the Siva Afi Festival.
Toara’i Pan Si GATIEN
Toara’i Pan Si Gatien is 10 years old. He has been practising fire dance for a year and a half.
In 2025, he participated in two competitions: Te Ahi Toa and Siva Afi Tahiti. This is his first time competing in New Zealand.
He proudly represents Tahiti.
Zahlia FALEOLO
Zahlia FALEOLO is a 11-year-old from Tāmaki Makaurau who represents the villages of Falelima and Leulumoega in Samoa. Zahlia began their journey in 2022 by participating in workshops at AKTIVE ZONE. Since then, Zahlia has competed both internationally and in Aotearoa. In November 2025, Zahlia achieved third place at the Siva Afi Tahiti competition.
Intermediate Competitors
Ally AUNESE-WHITE
Ally Aunese-White is a 14-year-old fire warrior who attends Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. She proudly represents the Tāhimana Fire Warriors and her Samoan villages of Fusi Safata and Satupa‘itea. Ally’s dedication, discipline, and passion for siva afi shine both on and off the competition floor. In 2025, she achieved first place at the amateur Whau Competition, a testament to her hard work and her growing skill as a young fire warrior.
Arielle Trinity MAIAVA
Arielle Trinity MAIAVA is a 15-year-old Year 11 student at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School who proudly honors her Samoan heritage. With roots in the villages of Sa’anapu, Puipa’a, Poutasi, and Utuali’i, she fully embraces both the Gagana and aganu’u fa’aSamoa. Arielle is passionate about Siva Asamo and Siva Afi, and she continues to develop her skills and confidence in these traditional arts.
Harlym MOKARAKA
Harlym Mokaraka is 14 years old and has Samoan and Māori heritage. Harlym is connected to the villages of Vailele, Siumu, and Manase, as well as to Ko Ngāpuhi iwi and Ko Mahurehure hapū. Harlym competed in Brisbane’s Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa Fire Knife competition in 2024 and also participated in the International Siva Afi Competition in Samoa in 2025.
Isaac “Ice Man” VA’AI
Isaac “Ice Man” Va’ai, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the village of Siumu, has been training with Tautua for two years and has diligently prepared for his upcoming competition. He has showcased his skills at the Si’o ile Afi showcase in Brisbane, across the South Island, and throughout Wellington and the Wairarapa region. This will be his first official competition.
Jazarrah “Shaka Sulu” TALA
Jazarrah “Shaka Sulu” Tala, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Samatau, Manono, Salelologa, Falese’ela, and Nukunonu Tokelau, has been a valued member of Tautua for five years, actively participating in Siva Sāmoa classes and contributing to the performance team. In 2023, she expanded her involvement by joining the Siva Afi classes, and throughout 2024 she showcased her talent at major events including Siva Afi Aotearoa, the World Fireknife Competition in Hawai‘i, and Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa in Brisbane. She continued to demonstrate her skills at Si’o ile Afi in Brisbane in 2025.
Khalea CARSONS
Khalea Carson’s greatest achievement is inspiring and leading fellow youth in Northland to connect with their cultural heritage and identity through the Arts. She is a co-founder of Taonga O Te Moana, established alongside her two siblings.
Khalea assisted and participated in Northland’s first team to take the Cook Islands stage at Polyfest and Pasifika in 2025. She also represented Northland at the Auckland Schools Cook Islands Dance Competition, placing 2nd in 2024, and worked on Chief of War alongside Jason Momoa.
Khalea proudly represents her village of Liku (Niue), Te Au O Tonga (Cook Islands), and Tūhoe tōku iwi.
Kobe MALOTĀ
Kobe Malotā is a proud member of the TOTM Siva Afi group from Ruakākā, Northland. Of Ngāti Porou and Samoan descent, with ancestral ties to the village of Vailima, he steps onto the stage for his very first Siva Afi competition, bringing passion and strength to his performance.
Makea MJ PAUKA Jnr
Makea Pauka Jnr, born and raised in the Cook Islands, comes from a family of fire-knife dancers and made his international debut at the 2025 World Fireknife Championships in Hawaiʻi. Dancing since the age of seven, he performs with his family group Tamariki Manuia, proudly represents his village of Avatiu/Ruatonga, and is ready to forge his own path in mastering the art.
Mathias Ha'ani ROBERTSON
Mathias Ha'ani Robertson is a 13-year-old creative of Tongan, Samoan, and Fijian descent, proudly originating from the villages of Kolofou and Makave in Tonga, as well as Vaimoso in Samoa. Mathias is the founder of Ha‘ani Afi Designs, a small business dedicated to crafting custom Ula Nifo that celebrate Polynesian culture. Mathias has a profound love for Siva Afi—not only as a performance art, but also as a powerful connection to their ancestors and heritage. Through passion and creativity, Mathias aims to inspire others to embrace their culture and carry forward their traditions.
Samoana-Vavega “Sa” SO’O
Samoana-Vavega “Sa” So’o, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Fagaloa, Vaigaga, Sale’aula, Saoluafata, and Foālalo, has been a member of Tautua Siva Afi since August 2023 and has been diligently preparing for competition since 2024. This marks her inaugural competition, and she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to showcase her talents. Travelling from Shannon in the Horowhenua to attend classes, she has performed extensively throughout Wellington and Blenheim and was also part of the team that participated in the Si’o ile Afi showcase in Brisbane in 2025.
Tausani-Fa’aea “Chino” SO’O
Tausani-Fa’aea “Chino” So’o, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Fagaloa, Vaigaga, Sale’aula, Saoluafata, and Foālalo, has been training with Tautua for two years, travelling from Shannon in the Horowhenua to attend classes. He has performed at events across Aotearoa and showcased his skills at the Si’o ile Afi showcase in Brisbane. This marks Tausani’s first official competition.
Vandross Nifae PEREZ
Vandross Nifae Perez is a 13-year-old with roots in Lufilufi, Samoa; Utulei, American Samoa; Nga Puhi and Tainui in Aotearoa; and Hakupu, Niue, currently based in Temple View, Hamilton. Vandross has a deep love for culture and family, is proud to represent their Aiga, and is committed to learning, growing, and sharing with others. Vandross is competing in his first ever siva afi competition.
Wahine Toa Competitors
Agnes “Ake” ANAE
Agnes “Ake” Anae, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Lotofaga and Mata’utu Falelatai, began her journey with Tautua after attending a Siva Afi workshop in Lower Hutt in 2024. She went on to enrol in Tautua’s Siva Afi classes in 2025, and although she has only been spinning for a short time, her enthusiasm for learning and competing is unmistakable as she prepares for her first competition in March in Auckland.
Arden MEREDITH-NUMIA
Arden Meredith-Numia is a 16-year-old student from Massey High School. Arden Meredith-Numia represents the Tielu, Taua, Leilua, and Pereira families, as well as the villages of Togafuafua, Matautu, Siufaga, Siumu, and Moataa. Arden Meredith-Numia began learning Siva Afi in August 2020 at Mt Roskill.
Electra AKARURU-PAUKA
Electra AKARURU-PAUKA is a 17-year-old student at Tereora College, born and raised in the beautiful village of Arorangi, Rarotonga. Passionate about sports and dancing, Electra performs with her family’s group, the Tamariki Manuia Dance Troupe, at venues such as Edgewater Resort & Bar and the Rarotongan Hotel. Last year, Electra competed in the Intermediate category of the World Fire Knife Championships in Hawaii, which further fuelled her passion to push boundaries. In 2025, Electra placed third in the open women’s category at the SIVA AFI FESTIVAL.
Emi Iliganoa PRITCHARD
Emi Iliganoa Pritchard is a 14-year-old student at ASDAH (Auckland Seventh-Day Adventist High), representing the villages of Sala’ilua (Savai’i), Iva, and Vaigaga. In 2024, Emi placed first in the Junior Girls’ category at the Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa Fire Knife competition in Brisbane. In 2025, Emi won first place in the Siva Afi Festival Intermediate Mix. Later that year, she travelled to Hawaii to compete in the World Fireknife Championship Open Women’s Category, where she placed third. In November, at the inaugural SIVA AFI TAHITI International Women’s category, Emi secured first place, capping off a busy and successful year. Emi is coached by Popea Lautala.
Faithing “Lava Girl” NOTOA
Faithing “Lava Girl” Notoa, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Falealupo, Tufutafoe, Taga, and Fagaloa, has been a member of the Tautua Siva Samoa performance group since 2023, showcasing her talents at various corporate and community events throughout Wellington. Later that year, she enrolled in Siva Afi classes and officially joined the Siva Afi team in 2024 in preparation for the Toa Ole Afi competition in 2025. She made her debut at Si’o Le Afi in September 2025 and has since demonstrated a strong desire to compete.
Hadassah “Deha” UELE
Hadassah “Deha” Uele, representing Tautua Siva Afi and hailing from the villages of Fasito’o Uta, Sinamoga, Vaie’e, and Sa’anapu, has been an integral part of Tautua since its establishment in 2016. Initially a dancer in the performance team, she later transitioned into the role of Siva Sāmoa tutor. In 2024, she began her Siva Afi journey while also working behind the scenes with the media team to capture competition content. In 2025, she started spinning fire in preparation for Toa Ole Afi and made her performance debut at Si’o ile Afi in Brisbane.
Marley ADAM
Marley Adam is 14 years old and attends St Mary’s College in Wellington. Marley’s heritage traces back to the villages of Vaito’omuli and Vailoa in Palauli Savai’i, and she also has whakapapa to the iwi of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa and Ngāi Tahu. She placed second in the Junior Girls category at the Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa Fire Knife competition in Brisbane, Australia, in 2024. Marley also placed second in the Intermediate category at the Siva Afi Festival in 2025. This is her first time competing in the open women’s category.
Portia MEREDITH-NUMIA
Portia Meredith-Numia, aged 19, represents the Tielu, Taua, Leilua, and Pereira families, as well as the villages of Togafuafua, Matautu, Siufaga, Siumu, and Moataa. Portia began practicing Siva Afi in August 2020 at Mt Roskill and has received coaching from Tauanuu Amo Ieriko, Mani Jr Sumeo, Valentino Luafaleolo, and is currently guided by Popea Lautala. In 2024, Portia placed third in both the International (mixed) category at the Siva Afi Tahiti competition and the Open Women’s category at Brisbane’s Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa Fire Knife competition. In March 2025, Portia achieved second place in the SIVA AFI FESTIVAL open women’s category.
Siniva TALAMAIVAO-NICKEL
Siniva Talamaivao-Nickel lives in the village of Vaimoso, Samoa. Her family heritage extends to the villages of Sinamoga, Falefa, Falealili, and Fagaloa. At 23 years old, she works as a professional Cook Island and Samoan dancer, regularly performing at fiafia shows throughout Samoa. She began her siva afi journey a year ago and is now excited to compete in her first international competition.
Victoria MOORS
Victoria Moors is a professional Pacific Island cultural dancer. Born and raised in Samoa, she began her Siva Afi journey in 2023. Victoria first learned Siva Afi under the guidance of Fredrick Schwenke at Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts. She later returned to Samoa, where she continued her training under the tutelage of Nathan Pomare. This competition marks her very first experience participating in Siva Afi. Victoria is from the villages of Matautu-Uta, Safata, in Upolu, and Safotu in Savai‘i, Samoa.
Tama Toa Afi Competitors
Eti Amani LEILUA
Eti Amani Leilua is 19 years old and comes from Maninoa, Siumu. Eti performs fire dancing for Sinalei Reef Resort and Coconut Beach Club. Eti was the second runner-up at the 2023 Samoan International Competition, the champion at the 2024 Samoan International Competition, and the first runner-up at the 2024 Toa o le Afi Fire Knife Competition in American Samoa. In November 2025, Eti placed in the top five. This is Eti’s second appearance at the SIVA AFI FESTIVAL.
Noarii CADOUSTEAU
Noarii Cadousteau, born on October 9, 2007, in Papeete, discovered fire-knife dancing in 2015 at the Te Ahi Toa school, led by Léon Teai. At age 11, he took part in his first competition. In 2024, he competed in the Intermediate category, and in 2025 he returned as part of a group, earning 3rd place at the Siva Afi in Tahiti.
Ra’i Teva TEAHI-CADOUSTEAU
Ra’i Teva Teahi-Cadousteau began fire-knife dancing with his uncle Joseph, then trained for two years under Léon Teai before continuing his journey with his father, Teva. He won 1st place in the Hope category at Teahi Nui Toa in 2019, 2nd place in the Intermediate division at Siva Afi 2024, 1st place in the Toa category at Te Ahi Toa 2025, and 4th place at Siva Afi Tahiti, the Polynesian Championship.
Reia TOGNA
Reia Togna, 29 years old and originally from Huahine in French Polynesia, has been practicing fire dancing for two years. This year, Reia is participating in an international competition for the first time. Reia will have the honour of representing Tahiti in the adult category, as well as the Te Tama Ahi school of Léon Teai—a proud moment for both their culture and artistic journey. In March 2025, Reia placed third in their first SIVA AFI FESTIVAL men’s competition.
Moa jr LUA
Moa Lua is a 15-year-old student from Aotea College in Wellington. Moa Lua represents the villages of Siumu and Poutasi, as well as the group ‘Uso Le Afi’. In 2024, Moa Lua competed in the first-ever Siva Afi competitions held in Australia and Tahiti, placing third in the junior boys’ category in Australia. In 2025, Moa Lua placed third in the Intermediate Mix Category with SIVA AFI FESTIVAL, and later, in November, was the second runner-up at the International Siva Afi Competition in Samoa.
This is Moa Lua’s first time competing in the open men’s category.
Nathan POMARE
Nathan Pomare is a professional Cultural Pacific Islander and Siva Afi dancer who was raised in Samoa. He has participated in the Teuila Festival and the Annual Siva Afi Competition in Samoa from his teenage years up to the present. This event marks his first international Siva Afi competition. Alongside his performance career, Nathan is also an active Siva Afi tutor, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of performers. He hails from the villages of Tauese and Tufuiopa in Apia, Samoa.
Jayden (Suni) AUNESE-WHITE
Suni Aunese-White is a 17-year-old siva afi warrior who proudly represents the Tāhimana Fire Warriors and his Samoan villages of Fusi Safata and Satupa‘itea. He has competed both locally and internationally, gaining valuable experience across numerous competitions. Through these experiences, Suni has achieved notable victories and strong placements, each opportunity contributing to his growth, discipline, and understanding of siva afi. His journey reflects humility, commitment, and a deep respect for the art and for those who have guided him along the way.
Hikitahi PIOKOE
Hikitahi Piokoe, 19 years old and from Tahiti, began practicing Siva Afi at the age of 12 with Léon at Te Tama Ahi. Hikitahi won their first title in the Intermediate category at Te Ahi Toa in both 2019 and 2023. Hikitahi represented Tahiti at the World Championships in Hawaii, finishing second in the Polynesian Championship and third overall at Siva Afi Tahiti 2024.
In 2025, the inaugural Tama Toa Afi Competition was held as part of the SIVA AFI FESTIVAL, where Hikitahi claimed the title of the first Tama Toa Afi Champion. Hikitahi will return to defend this title in March.
Tim NOYCE
Tim Noyce began learning Siva Afi in 2012 under the guidance of Leni Leota and Kome Feagaiaalii Senior, both former Samoan champions. He is a founding member of TahiMana and won the inaugural NZ TahiMana Competition in 2016.
He placed third in the 2018 Cook Islands Vaimatina Masters of the Flame Competition and, after competing multiple times in Samoa, achieved third place in the duo routine section in 2019.
Tim has organised and delivered several secondary school competitions over the years in both Auckland and Gisborne, where he has taught Siva Afi to young people and helped produce the winner and runner-up of the 2021 Aotearoa Siva Afi Festival.
Now representing Northland, and after a four-year break, he returns to the stage.
Festival Performers
Day One
LE TAUPOU MANAIA
AUCKLAND
Le Taupou Manaia Dance Academy was founded 21 years ago in Pago Pago, followed by Orange County USA, Apia Samoa, Auckland NZ (March 2019) then most recently in Sydney Australia by Director and founder of the Academy Le Afioga ia Tuifaasisina Seiuli Korina Lee, who resides in Pago Pago. Since its formation, Le Taupou Manaia has taught over ten-thousand young tama’ita’i Samoa, ages 3 years to 18 years and older.
AILAO AFI ACADEMY
(Formerly SIVA AFI MANGERE)
Formerly Siva Afi Māngere, the AILAO AFI ACADEMY represents the next phase in the ongoing development of siva afi in Aotearoa, within the Māngere–Ōtāhuhu community.
The ACADEMY seeks to embrace cultures from across the Moana, especially those with strong ancestral ties to siva afi, with Fa’aSamoa as its foundation. Participation in this initiative requires commitment to the ACADEMY’s core values, collaboration with others, and a strong work ethic.
AILAO AFI ACADEMY – Igniting Passion and Honouring Culture.
We proudly welcome the first intake of the ACADEMY, from the home of siva afi in Aotearoa!
POPEA LAUTALA
As a 3-time Teuila Festival Champion (Samoa) now making NZ his home, Popea has become a popular Siva Afi performer with constant bookings around NZ. From the Village of Siumu in Samoa, his style and energy is synonymous with the warrior or toa nature from this proud village, boasting several Siva Afi legends.
USO OLE AFI
Moa and Kitiona Lua
From Porirua, USO OLE AFI are two brothers who have been a strong foundation of Siva Afi Ailao in the Wellington Region. Their heritage links to Siumu village in Samoa, a place renowned for producing world-class Siva Afi performers and champions. Moa and Kitiona have continued this tradition, earning third place at the International Siva Afi Competition in Samoa in November 2025.
USO OLE AFI stands for the unity and strength these brothers bring to Ailao Afi in New Zealand.
ANUANUA PERFORMING ARTS TROUPE
Under the leadership of John Kiria, Anuanua Performing Arts Troupe is synonymous with Cook Island cultural music and performance, with over 25 years of entertainment in Aotearoa and abroad.
With a team of professional musicians and dancers they bring authentic Cook Island cultural performances as a great entertainment for weddings, birthdays parties, corporate, sporting and community events.
Day Two
TAONGA O TE MOANA
Taonga O Te Moana is a Pasifika Youth Initiative established to bridge the gap between youth and Pacific culture in Te Tai Tokerau. The organizations service or ‘gahua’ - delivers consistent weekly programmes, workshops, and opportunities for tamariki (children) to embrace the diverse cultures of the Pacific. provides spaces where young people can connect, belong, and nurture their cultural identity and heritage through traditional storytelling, song, and dance in the Pacific Performing Arts.
VILLAGE SIVA AFI
Pakuranga Howick began Siva Afi workshops in May 2025 and continues to offer them to this day. Village Siva Afi has a long-standing history with Siva Afi, with Howick College being the first school to host a Siva Afi School and an in-house competition under the guidance of former teacher Mr Tim NOYCE.
With the support of ARTS OUT EAST, Howick Local Board, and Sport Auckland, Village Siva Afi provides an avenue for East Auckland youth and families to learn and practice the Ailao Afi art form and to showcase it at local events.
Village Siva Afi would also like to thank Mele UMEANO and Howick Community Church for their support.
Village Siva Afi is under the guidance of experience ailao afi team of Hadassah, JP, Tai and Harlym.
EMI ILIGANOA PRITCHARD
Emi Iliganoa Pritchard is a 14-year-old student at ASDAH (Auckland Seventh-Day Adventist High), representing the villages of Sala’ilua (Savai’i), Iva, and Vaigaga. In 2024, Emi placed first in the Junior Girls’ category at the Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa Fire Knife competition in Brisbane. In 2025, Emi won first place in the Siva Afi Festival Intermediate Mix. Later that year, she travelled to Hawaii to compete in the World Fireknife Championship Open Women’s Category, where she placed third. In November, at the inaugural SIVA AFI TAHITI International Women’s category, Emi secured first place, capping off a busy and successful 2025. Emi is coached by Popea Lautala.
TAHIMANA Represented by Portia and Ardy
This duo piece was performed at Siva Afi Tahiti 2025 competition, where sisters Portia and Ardy were place third. As female artists, they aimed to highlight the strength and fire that emerges from sisterhood—the way they stand side by side, protect one another, and rise together through every challenge. Their performance represents unity, resilience, and the powerful bond between sisters.
MAIESITETE SIVA
MaieSitete Siva is a Samoan dance school that was founded by Matalena Tulisi in 2015 (previously Sau e Siva West Auckland). Based in the Whau, classes are taught out of New Lynn in collaboration with Aktive Zone.
MaieSitete Siva’s mission is to build their student’s confidence by teaching the foundations of Siva Samoa in an effort to connect with their culture.
TEINE O LE AFI
Teine o le Afi is a powerhouse all-women’s Siva Afi team redefining the fire knife stage with strength, legacy, and sisterhood. Made up of a dynamic, multi-generational collective of Wāhine Toa dancers, the group is led by 2-time world champion Melanie Tia, who continues to pave the way for female fire dancers worldwide and sharing the stage with fierce and talented performers Haddasah Tangoa’i, Emillie Pritchard, Marley Adam, and Bailey Armstrong Frost — each bringing their own power, artistry, and cultural pride to the flame.
Together, Teine o le Afi claimed 1st place in the Groups Category at the prestigious Tahiti International Siva Afi Competition last November 2025, further elevating the presence of women in the global Siva Afi movement and championing the art of fire with strength and mana.
Our Siva Afi Journey
Zahlia began her Siva Afi journey at just seven years old. As her mum, my deepest wish was for her to know who she is, where she comes from, and to grow strong in her culture and identity. I am Pālagi, and Zahlia is afakasi Samoan, so for both of us this journey has been about learning, listening, and walking humbly alongside culture while allowing it to shape her.
She was fortunate to learn from tutors who were not only skilled, but fun, inspiring, and patient - the kind of teachers who ignite passion. Through them, Zahlia discovered a genuine love for Siva Afi. She spent her first year spinning without fire, learning the foundations, discipline, and respect that this art form carries.
There is no Siva Afi manual. No step-by-step guide. You learn as you go - through observation, mistakes, corrections, stories, and the generosity of those who came before. When the opportunity came to compete at the 2024 Auckland Siva Afi Festival, everything deepened. We stepped into fire safety, towelling, balancing her stick, building her Siva Afi kit, and understanding the responsibility that comes with interacting with fire. The learning curve was steep, but the support was powerful. Our relationships within the Siva Afi community grew stronger, and we were surrounded by people who uplifted her and believed in her.
Then came the stage.
Zahlia is a shy girl. In small groups she can be quiet, cautious, sometimes whakamā about trying new things. But when she steps onto that stage, something powerful happens. She forgets her worries. She channels her ancestors. She goes hard. Watching her transform is one of the greatest honours of my life. Nothing makes me prouder than being her māmā in those moments.
By Amy Manos
After that first competition, we began learning about the history of Siva Afi - those who paved the way, the cultural roots, the meaning behind the movement. It deepened her form and her respect for the art. With that came more practice, more dedication, and yes… more ups and downs. Some days she’s eager. Other days it’s a struggle to even start. But we keep showing up.
We decided to take the leap and travel to Brisbane for competition, which meant even more training and, honestly, more cost. Here in Auckland, we are blessed with experienced dancers who generously poured into Zahlia, helping her grow in both skill and confidence.
We did notice that she trained all year for only one or two performances, yet it was on the stage where she shone the brightest. So, alongside other amazing mums, we began finding performance opportunities for our kids - gigs, community events, chances to practise their craft and feel the magic of performing. It changed everything for Zahlia. Her confidence blossomed.
To this day, our journey moves in waves - seasons of pushing hard, seasons where practice is tough. But with every performance, her love for Siva Afi grows deeper.
We are endlessly grateful for the Siva Afi community who have become friends, mentors, and family. To Zahlia’s tutors, who have instilled discipline, courage, respect, and pride in her - thank you. And to this journey that continues to shape her into a strong, confident young afakasi Samoan girl, we carry it with so much love.
This is our Siva Afi journey, and it’s only just beginning.
Pakuranga-Howick & Te Tai To Kerau
Media
We love sharing our passion for Siva Afi with the world.
Siva Afi organisers fear fire dance festival could be extinguished
Auckland's annual Siva Afi Festival - which celebrates the art of Samoan fire knife dancing - takes place this weekend, but organisers fear without firm funding it could be the last.
The festival kicked off in 2020, following the success and popularity of similar events overseas - even managing to run through the Covid years.
The free two-day festival attracts participants from all around the Pacific, with performances, competition and workshops for kids as young as five.
But organisers say nearly $80,000 is needed to run the event, and fundraising - as for many arts and cultural organisations - has fallen short.
Amo Ieriko helped set up the festival back in 2019 and joins Kathryn to talk about how it's grown, the importance to the Pasifika community and its future generations.
Festival Testimonials
“I admire the growth of the festival due to your vision to share Siva Afi with the World, but also to be so inclusive in doing so. Your RNZ interview was so clear and concise in explaining the origins of the art form, the festival and growing Siva Afi in Aotearoa. Massive congratulations Amo. Really proud of your journey. “
Tanya Muagututi'a, Pasifika Festivals
Event Partner
Moanaroa (Auckland – NZ)
Patron
Brisbane - Australia
Friends of the Festival
Tinifuloa Aunese (Auckland – NZ)
Matalena and Pa Tulisi (Auckland – NZ)
Matarina and Ariitea (Auckland – NZ)
With thanks to our Supporters
Partnership with Jacinda Stowers-Ama and the Pacifica Arts Centre – Moanaroa.
Patrons for the festival: Su’a Salote Isaako, Auimatagi Ainsley Schwalger-Mamea, and Le Tā Nifo’oti.
To our Friends of the Festival, we acknowledge the following people and families: Tinifuloa Aunese, and Matalena and Pa Tulisi.
We would also like to thank our funders and supporters: Foundation North, Māngere-Otāhūhū Arts, NZ Lottery Grants Board, Māngere-Otāhūhū Local Board, AKTIVE ZONE, Big Village – Rhys Klaus, Ha’ani Afi Designs – Ha’ani Robertson, No Mercy Blades – Chris Numia, Toa Nomads, Lightbox Projects, Manaia Productions, Siva Mai With Nat, Māngere Arts Centre, TMK Packers, Gift Collective, and Polynesian Entertainers.
A special mention to Jo Armstrong (AKTIVE ZONE) for their relationship with the New Lynn Community Centre, which has become a home for siva afi activities in the West Auckland area.