What began as a form of expression within black communities in the United States travelled across the world and was embraced, adapted and reimagined by communities in the Pacific. It did not replace Pacific culture; instead, it became another way for Pacific youth to express who we are. There’s a long-held assumption that outside cultural influences weaken or undermine our own cultures. But could the opposite be true? Could embracing influences from other cultures help young people understand, celebrate and express their own identity?
For me, hip hop is a powerful example of how cultures can meet without one disappearing. When we allow cultures to influence one another, we can create something new while still proudly carrying where we come from.
Cultures arriving and growing here aren’t something to fear or separate from “New Zealand” culture, but are part of Aotearoa’s richness.
Yet, recent racist and divisive comments made by some of our politicians will suggest otherwise.
At a time when conversations around migration, identity and belonging in Aotearoa have become increasingly polarised, it’s even more important to consider who is seen to belong in this country, and the kind of Aotearoa we want to create. The effects of xenophobia and racism shape negative, unhealthy ideas about our diverse cultures, resulting in colonised thinking, judgment and environments where migrants and minority communities can feel unsafe expressing their cultures and languages.
For me, this is where the arts play an important role. Art allows us to challenge these ideas by creating space for different cultures to meet, influence one another and be celebrated. I believe embracing cultural diversity does not make Aotearoa less itself, but makes our cultural landscape richer, more connected and more reflective of the people who call this place home.
Tanoa’i is a member of the Y25 cohort for 2026, a programme from YWCA that annually recognises 25 young women and gender-diverse Kiwis creating positive change in their communities. Her latest film ‘It’s Bigger than Hip-Hop’ is available to watch on YouTube.