PCF Launches first Pacific Perceptions Report
Pacific Cooperation Foundation has launched the first Pacific Perceptions Report in New Zealand. Commissioned by PCF and conducted by Kantar, the report called ‘New Zealanders’ Perceptions of the Pacific’ focuses on attitudes and feelings towards and about Pacific peoples in New Zealand.
The report acknowledges New Zealand as a significant part of New Zealand history, present and future with around 400,000 people in New Zealand identifying as Pasifika. That’s currently eight percent of the current population.
PCF Chair Anne Fitesamanu said “Narratives relating to the Pacific are often shaped by dominant media and nations. We wanted to hear the voices of the people. We found 91 per cent of New Zealanders view developing ties with the Pacific as at least somewhat important, with the large majority expecting the Pacific to impact positively on New Zealand’s future – economically, politically and culturally.”
David Vaeafe, Executive Director of PCF acknowledged that this report provided a baseline with which to expand upon in the coming years. Issues that are relevant to Pacific peoples are becoming more and more relevant to New Zealanders - climate change for example.
“When you hear about climate change, you see those climate change voices like Greta [Thunberg] from Europe - but Greta from Europe is not a Pacific youth standing knee-deep in rising waters.”
Thank you to Dr Monique Faleafa and the Pacific team at PWC for hosting the launch event. Watch the video below to see what attendees thought about the Perceptions Report and why it’s so important.
To download a PDF version of the “New Zealanders’ Perceptions of the Pacific” click here.