Jessyna

My dad is Niuean and my mum is Tongan. My dad was born in Niue and came to New Zealand when he was 14. His whole family came to New Zealand to make a better life.

When we have family celebrations we usually have an umu. My nana does traditional weaving. She makes bags, hats, mats and bowls.

This a lili that my Nana made for my fifth birthday. I keep it hanging in the lounge because it's very special to me. My Nana also made the lili that is on the front page of this website and the beautiful hat that I am wearing in this photo.

You can learn more about Niuean weaving from the Living Heritage story 'My Cultural Heritage' made by Marcellin College students.