NZ delegation gives thanks

It all seems like a distant memory—the warmth of the sun in the tropical northern part of the Pacific as we the Aotearoa/New Zealand Delegation traveled and explored the beautiful island of Saipan. Welcomed like kings and queens of the South Pacific we were honored to be invited to attend and perform at the 30th Flame Tree Arts Festival, lasting connections made through the sharing of stories and histories, hearts interwoven through our collective lineage shared by being children of the Pacific.

It was with heavy hearts that we left Saipan International Airport after being hosted by the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture bound for Aotearoa/New Zealand. It was not only the realization that we were heading back to the middle of our winter season but realizing that we were leaving the warmth of the people of Saipan and the wider Mariana islands. We thank all the people who helped make our inaugural pilgrimage to the Flame Tree Arts Festival so memorable and are reluctant to mention any names in fear of missing someone out but you all know who you are.

As a group we reflected on what was a very memorable festival. We were all overwhelmed by the generosity and hospitality of all the people of Saipan and the Mariana islands, we were grateful for the wealth of experiences shared with us and look forward to the day where we can repay a snippet of the aroha (love) shown us. We were overwhelmed with the intimate setting of the festival shaded by the protective trees but surrounded by the beauty, which are the waterways of Saipan. The setting encapsulated the aroha and aspirations of the people within from the stallholders with their giant smiles, beautiful arts and crafts, and not to forget all the delicacies that were on offer to eat. Too, all the performers exhibiting their pride and passion for their art form, too the committee members working like busy bees making sure it all fell into place and worked like a well-oiled machine.

We the Aotearoa/New Zealand delegation see this as the beginning of a beautiful relationship between us and the Flame Tree Arts Festival and the peoples of Saipan, we look forward to keeping in touch with all our brothers and sisters via email and Facebook and look forward to welcoming you all to Aotearoa/New Zealand in the future.