About

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, known by the Māori as "Tamaki Makau Rau" (meaning "Tamaki with a hundred lovers" symbolising its abundance of natural resources), is a vibrant metropolis situated on the North Island. Its stunning harbours, volcanic landscapes, and urban vitality give it a unique blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan charm. Its nickname “The City of Sails” comes from Auckland having more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Auckland's growth from early Māori settlements focused on fishing and horticulture to a bustling port town and major city during European colonisation in the 19th century was propelled by its strategic trade and immigration location. Today, Auckland thrives as a multicultural hub, welcoming immigrants from Europe, Asia, and the Pacific, enriching its cultural tapestry. It is the arts and cultural heart of the Pacific with several festivals, exhibitions and memorials.

One of the notable facets of Auckland's diversity is its Filipino community, which has grown significantly in recent years, contributing to the city's rich multicultural fabric. Filipinos have become one of the fastest-growing ethnic groups in New Zealand, and Auckland serves as a focal point for this community. According to the 2018 New Zealand Census, Filipinos represent one of the top five Asian ethnic groups in Auckland, with their numbers steadily increasing over the years.

Auckland is home to over 50,000 Filipinos!

Today, Auckland is the biggest Polynesian city in the world. As of the 2018 New Zealand Census, 11% of its residents are Maori, over 15% are Pasifika, over 50% are European, and so Asians make up over 25% of Auckland's population. Overall, Auckland's population of approximately 1.7 million people represents over one-third of New Zealand's total population, reflecting the city's status as a dynamic and inclusive urban centre.

‍

"PISTANG PILIPINO 2024 “TARA NA, SAMA NA SA AUCKLAND!"

The Filipino community from all over New Zealand gathers during Labour Weekend each year to celebrate our culture. Each passing year, the host city brings together Filipinos from different places and cities to showcase their talents in a weekend of sports events, cultural performances and even a beauty pageant. This annual celebration gives old and new Filipinos in New Zealand a chance to interact with one another as well as take pride and enjoy our culture even for at least three days. From its simple beginnings, the Labour Weekend Reunion has grown incredibly big, and its identity is institutionalised within the Filipino migrant community. A new twist to this annual tradition is the introduction of KiwiNoy Huwaw Factor - Talent Search competition that highlights the Filipino talents living in New Zealand.

How we started

The Labour Weekend reunion in Auckland had humble beginnings, starting in 1976. The pioneers recalled the desire for a sense of home in a new country, where cultural differences and language barriers were challenging. So a group of Filipino families began with simple activities like barbecues, mah-jong, and card games to create a familiar environment. As Filipinos in other parts of New Zealand started similar gatherings, the event's popularity grew. By the late 80s, discussions about annual reunions began, leading to the nationwide celebration it is today.

‍

About CAPO

Council of Auckland Philippine Organisations Incorporated (CAPO Inc.) is the main organiser of the 2024 Filipino National Reunion. CAPO Inc. aims to organise Filipino events, strengthen community ties, promote a positive image of Filipinos in New Zealand, represent member organisations, help Filipinos integrate into New Zealand, provide resources, and seek donations responsibly for the achievement of our common objectives. CAPO Inc. was founded in 2002 and led by Virginia Russell, and after her, Dr. Tony Noblejas and Sam Dignadice each served a one-year term as president, with Virginia Russell leading the organisation for the remaining years. The group continues to support the representation of Filipinos in New Zealand with hopes to sustain our culture for the future generations.

(see CAPO new logo)

‍