Pasifika Traditions

(Adapted from a presentation by MIT lecturer Fia Turner)

What does Pasifika mean?

'Pasifika' is a term unique to Aotearoa to describe migrants from the Pacific region and their descendants who now call Aotearoa home. It refers to people who are descendants of the Polynesian nations of the Cook Islands, Tonga, Niue, Samoa, Tuvalu and Tokelau. People from Fiji and other 'Pacific' nations including Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, West Papua, Indonesia and Papua are referred to as Melanesians (generally not Pasifika). It is important to note that a number of New Zealand-born Pasifika people do not speak their heritage languages - those who do speak their heritage languages are more likely to do so in churches or in their homes

Pasifika cultural considerations

• Inter-marriage or inter-racial relationships are quite common.
• Collaboration in group work is generally more effective than working individually.
• Correct pronunciation of names helps earn respect.
• Establishing positive relationships with families and clear communication results in better therapeutic outcomes.
• It is important to respect Pasifika peoples’ voice regardless of their language barriers.

Typical Cultural views on Pregnancy and Childbirth

A woman’s mother has a big role in the process from pregnancy to the birth of the child. Equally important are the female elders, who are expected to teach the pregnant woman about self-care and care for the baby. This might include: different healthy habits, traditions, and taboos for pregnancy. Prenatal care and support can include elders, healers, midwives, or doctors.

Pregnant women are well-cared for in the community, and are generally discouraged from doing any heavy work. In terms of diet, they are encouraged to eat fish and drink fish broth. Fofō [traditional full-body massages] are very common and done with coconut oil, usually by the pregnant woman's mother. Some aspects of preparation for birth, however, might be neglected - for example, buying nappies or baby clothes may be not be seen as a high priority.

Childbirth

Polynesian women give birth at home or in the hospital. Female elders and the mother of the pregnant woman are usually present at the birth, where coaching and massages are given during the process. After the birth, the placenta is taken and buried in the whenua [the land]. Usually, the grandmother, mother, and elders of the woman name the baby after a family member. As the community celebrates, a pastor will usually conduct a blessing for mother, baby and family.

Postnatal

It is very common for the new mother and baby to stay with the new grandmother, who - along with other elders - takes care of them for at least a month. The new mother is not allowed to do any heavy work during this time. Breastfeeding is both encouraged and common. It is believed that believe the bigger the baby, the healthier he or she is. As the baby grows, the community has a responsibility to help raise the child - it takes a village to raise a child.