Wellington, New Zealand — Philippine literature, culture, and heritage found a new home in the capital as the Philippine Embassy in New Zealand opened its second Te Kokonga Filipiñana (Filipiñana Corner) at Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui (Wellington Central Library) on 12 September 2026.

At the ceremony formally opening Te Kokonga Filipiñana Wellington, Philippine Ambassador Kira Christianne D. Azucena highlighted that the Filipiñana Corner is more than a dedicated space for Philippine books but a space where people can discover and develop a deeper appreciation of the Philippines not only through its books and historical narratives, but also through the voices, experiences, and stories of Filipinos themselves.

Representing Wellington Central Library, Ms. Zoe Miller, Ethnic Communities Engagement Coordinator, expressed appreciation for the Embassy’s initiative and for the contribution of Philippine books and cultural resources to the Library’s collection.

During the ceremonial turnover of the books, Ambassador Azucena highlighted the carefully curated collection of books that showcased Philippine culture, history, literature, traditions, and cuisine. The collection includes children’s literature and folktales, publications on Philippine history and cultural heritage, works featuring national heroes such as José Rizal and Apolinario Mabini, Philippine literary classics including Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, and books celebrating Filipino cuisine. Organised by themes, the collection offers readers of different ages and interests an accessible glimpse into the richness and diversity of Filipino heritage.

The opening ceremony was complemented by a cultural programme featuring Filipino artists and performers from the Wellington region, namely Filcoro Wellington Filipino Choir who sang Dahil Sa’yo and Bahay Kubo; a special yo-yo performance by champion yo-yo performer Rens Saludes; and a banga dance by Filifest NZ.

Following the opening ceremony, Ms. MaRu Bautista-Juanta led a special Filipino story-time session for young guests. The interactive activity provided children with an opportunity to engage with Philippine literature.

The opening of Te Kokonga Filipiñana Wellington followed the one of Te Kokonga Filipiñana Hastings last September. END

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Philippine Studies Network Aotearoa New Zealand
National Commission for Culture and the Arts