30 Jun 2020

Te Papa appoints first Pasifika head of Pacific/NZ cultures

From , 6:00 am on 30 June 2020

New Zealand's national museum has appointed a new head of Pacific and New Zealand cultures and histories.

Significantly for Te Papa, it is the first time a person of Pacific heritage has held the role.

Togialelei Dr Safua Akeli Amaama comes to New Zealand from her role as head of Samoan Studies at the National University of Samoa.

She spoke with Dominic Godfrey about balancing the museum's narratives with a Pacific perspective.

Togialelei started with drew her away from Samoa.
 

Togialelei Dr Safua Akeli Amaama (R) talking with Te Papa colleague in collections storage.

Togialelei Dr Safua Akeli Amaama (R) talking with Te Papa colleague in collections storage. Photo: Te Papa