Pasifika Islands: History and Culture
Exploring the rich heritage of Pacific Island peoples Year 7 Humanities Understanding our Pacific neighbours
What are the Pasifika Islands?
Pacific Ocean island nations and territories Includes Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia Over 30,000 islands across the Pacific Home to diverse cultures and languages
Pacific Island Regions
The Great Pacific Migration
Started around 3,000 years ago Polynesian navigators sailed thousands of kilometres Used stars, waves, and wildlife to navigate One of humanity's greatest exploration achievements
Traditional Navigation vs Modern Technology
{"left":"Reading star patterns and constellations\nObserving wave patterns and swells\nFollowing bird flight paths\nFeeling ocean currents","right":"GPS satellite navigation\nElectronic compass and charts\nWeather radar systems\nRadio communication"}
European Contact and Colonisation
Captain James Cook's voyages (1768-1779) Missionaries arrived in early 1800s Colonial powers divided up islands Traditional ways of life were disrupted
Cultural Connections Activity
Work in pairs to match Pacific Island countries with their cultural traditions Examples: Fiji - Kava ceremony, Samoa - Siva dance Discuss what you already know about Pacific cultures Share connections to Pacific heritage in your family or community
Pacific Island Cultures Today
Strong family and community values Traditional arts, music, and dance continue Languages preserved alongside English Modern Pacific identity blends old and new
Discussion Question
How do Pacific Island cultures contribute to New Zealand's identity today? Think about: food, festivals, sports, arts, values What Pacific influences have you noticed in New Zealand?
Summary: Pacific Heritage
Pacific Islanders were skilled navigators and explorers Rich cultures with strong community values European contact brought major changes Pacific cultures remain vibrant in New Zealand today