Hastings, New Zealand — Philippine culture shone brightly in New Zealand with the launch of "Te Kokonga Filipiñana," the first-ever Filipiñana Corner in the country. Unveiled in collaboration with Hastings Library on 19 August 2026, this initiative of the Philippine Embassy in New Zealand transforms a corner of the library into a vibrant gateway to Philippine literature, history, and cultural heritage.

Ambassador Kira Azucena captured the heart of the event in her remarks, expressing gratitude for the Hastings community’s support.

The Hastings Library Te Kokonga Filipiñana features books about the Philippines, including children’s books, and will become a permanent fixture in the community center. The launching was highlighted by the ceremonial turn-over of 18 books, including Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo by Jose Rizal, Culture and History by Nick Joaquin, Rizal in Barong Tagalog by Noel Villaroman, and Cabinet of Curiosities: History from Philippine Artifacts by Ambeth Ocampo.

Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Kira Christianne D. Azucena captured the heart of the event in her remarks, expressing gratitude for the Hastings community’s support. “This initiative is more than simply creating a corner for books," she said. "It is about building bridges between our two communities through knowledge, stories, and shared experiences.”

Hastings Library reciprocated by conveying its appreciation through a Māori expression of thanks, reflecting its commitment to acknowledging and respecting the cultural significance of the initiative.

A storytelling session led by Ms. Clarelyn Reyes, a Filipino educator based in Napier, stole the hearts of young attendees. Ms. Reyes introduced young audiences to Filipino values and heritage, demonstrating the role of storytelling in preserving culture and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

Another highlight of the launch was the recognition of award-winning Filipino Joseph Trinidad, underscoring the contribution of Filipino writers to Philippine literary and cultural heritage in Aotearoa. Filipino students added to the celebration through music and dance performances showcasing Philippine traditions.

The historic launch brought together a diverse group of attendees, including representatives from Hastings District Council, the Multicultural Association of Hawke’s Bay, members of the Filipino diaspora, educators, and students. The timing of the launch was particularly poignant, coinciding with the Philippines' "Buwan ng Wika", a celebration of Filipino language and culture’s vital role in uniting communities.

This flagship project seeks to establish Filipiñana Corners in libraries across New Zealand, providing a treasure trove of knowledge not only for Filipino communities but also for local students, researchers, and the curious wider public. By bringing Philippine stories into mainstream spaces, Te Kokonga Filipiñana strengthens cultural ties and creates opportunities for shared learning between the Philippines and New Zealand.

The Embassy envisions Te Kokonga Filipiñana as more than just a one-time endeavor. Beyond the initial donation of books and resources, the project aims to foster partnerships between Filipino communities and library networks to ensure sustainability and community-driven growth. Each corner is a step toward strengthening the cultural bond between the Philippines and New Zealand, weaving together stories that inspire and unite. END

Ceremonial turn-over of Philippine books to Hastings Library.

Ambassador Kira Azucena together with representatives from Hastings Library, officers of the Filipino community in Hawke’s Bay, and Hastings District Council and Multicultural Association of Hawke’s Bay

A storytelling session led by Ms. Clarelyn Reyes, a Filipino educator based in Napier, stole the hearts of young attendees.

Another highlight of the launch was the recognition of award-winning Filipino Joseph Trinidad for his book titled “Lucky Creatures”

1. Filipino students from Hastings Girls High School added to the celebration through their tinikling dance performance showcasing Philippine traditions.
2. Mr. David Kenn Mabalcon, a young Filipino talent based in Hawkes Bay, captivated the crowd with his rendition of the Tagalog song, Tuloy Pa Rin.