The New Zealand government is to launch its first 'Pacific Vision' project in nearly two decades, with a focus on empowering Pasifika people.
The Pacific Peoples Minister, Aupito William Sio, said feedback from more than 130 Pacific groups is helping to shape a refreshed strategy, which will be launched in November.
His Ministry said it had engaged with more than 2500 Pacific people representing community organisations, youth, people with disabilities, businesses, NGOs, and churches.
The last 'Pacific Vision' was created in 1999.
Aupito said the new work would build on past efforts but would also shift focus from government-led solutions to empowering Pacific peoples to be masters of their own destinies.
He said Pacific communities are the youngest and fastest growing in the country.
The Minister said with almost two-thirds of the Pasifika population now born in New Zealand, protecting and developing culture and identity is more important than ever.
The new 'Pacific Vision' will be launched at the Pacific Aotearoa Summit in Auckland on November 13.
The Pacific Peoples Minister, Aupito William Sio. Photo: RNZ/Daniela Maoate-Cox
