Back in 2012, a Koraunui School teacher, Luana Leulua'i, approached her boss, Barbara Hay, to see if the school could organise a Polyfest for the local cluster of primary schools in Stokes Valley, Pomare and Taita. Being the formidable person Luana was, Barbara could only say yes and being the school Koraunui is, the staff and community jumped on board and made it happen.
Seven school groups gathered in the Taita College hall to present a one night concert....and it felt like the entire community rocked up to see it! The hall was packed, the queue to get in stretched out the school gate, and people were five deep watching through the windows. Sadly on 4th of May 2018, we lost our beloved Luana and her legacy has since been continued on by co-founder Barbara Hay and the HuttFest Board. LUANA'S VISION Growing up in Taita and raised in the Hutt Valley, Luana would often hear of these events happening outside of Wellington. During the years, there were never similar platforms established in the Hutt Valley Region. Therefore being a teacher herself and watching the generation grow, she wanted to create a rich childhood experience that our children will remember for the rest of their lives. Luana believed that the platform should not be competitive but an event to be proud and show case the different cultures and values that surround our society today. As we mark the 10-Year Anniversary, her vision has been kept alive and the HuttFest as we know today, has become a staple event in the Hutt Valley Region. Luana's favorite quote
‘So’o o le fau i le fau - In Unity Lies Strength’ |