Dr Shane Reti Photo: RNZ Pacific / Eleisha Foon
New Zealand's Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti has dismissed criticisms from Polyfest organisers that the government has not contributed enough funding for the event.
Polyfest, hailed as the largest Māori and Pasifika secondary schools festival in the world, will celebrate its 50th anniversary early next month.
A NZ$5000 increase from the government was promised for this year's event, but organisers say it has fallen short of their funding expectations.
Dr Shane Reti told Pacific Waves that it was was more than enough.
"I understand that festivals will always need more," he said.
"But if we just contemplate that for a moment, it is a 10% increase from last year, and as I understand it from the ministry, one of, if not the biggest grant we give to festivals of that type [and] that is a good contribution from government."
He said the ministry will continue to support Polyfest with "precious funding" as long as it adds value.
"In fact, for a number of consecutive years, that's exactly what we have done. As long as it continues to deliver value, I would anticipate that the the ministry will still look at providing support."
Dr Reti is also remaining positive about the government agency despite last year's funding cuts and failure to meet a key target.
In the previous budget, funding for MPP was slashed by more than NZ$26 million, and more than 50 jobs were disestablished.
A report released by MPP towards the end of 2024 also found that they scored low on the quality of advice they provided.
However, Dr Reti told Pacific Waves he has high hopes for the ministry in 2025.
"There uge enthusiasm to improve the outlook for Pacific peoples here in New Zealand, and to foster and develop the long-standing relationship we have with the home countries.
"There is a real ambition to continue to fulfill the mission of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples."
He added that while he could not comment on what the 2025 Budget will offer for his ministry, "I do know is that we box above our weight that we are really good with the current funds that we have at having an impact on the lives of Pacific peoples."
