In the 15-year history of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Poetry Slam, only three Pasifika poets have taken the coveted title.

With Samoan poet Talia Stanley (2024) as the most recent champion, there’s no better moment to bring together all three Pasifika poets who have held the title.

Joining Talia for a performance and celebration of their oratorical excellence are former winners and beloved poets Eric Soakai (2019) and Daisy Lavea-Timo (2017).

Guest curator Zech Soakai then joins the poets in a conversation about their powerful storytelling and how it has won over crowds from all over Aotearoa New Zealand.

Part of Zech Soakai’s guest curatorship.

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Last updated: 17 March 2025