The Sir Hubert Murray Stadium came alive this weekend hosting the successful “Asian Story & Pacific Story” cultural Float Festival in Konedobu, commemorating the Papua New Guineas (PNG) 50th Independence Anniversary Port Moresby.
Hubert Murray stadium celebrated the Float Festival the entire Saturday 17th May 2025, led by the National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop which saw a rich display of tradition, music, and unity.
Governor Parkop joined officials and community leaders for the opening flag-salute ceremony honoring New Zealand, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Samoa and American Samoa, celebrating and reinforcing the spirit of unity.
The opening performance set the tone for the program designed to showcase the cultures of the nations of the pacific through dance, music and song.
The highlights of the Float Festival included the Samoan owned fashion house Tanoa hosted a vibrant Pacific fashion show between performances, with models displaying island-inspired textiles and designs.
The customary groups from Kiribati, Tuvalu and Samoa shared traditional story dance with drumming patterns on stage, highlighting their heritage through Cultural dances. This includes New Zealand’s champion of Te Matatini, (Kapa haka troupe) “Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue” performing a powerful haka, thrilling the crowd with fierce chants and choreography.
Meanwhile, the night sky was set ablaze with a festive fireworks display, capping the celebration in true jubilee style, leading into the evening concert.
The final afternoon concert featured DJ Noiz, DJ Kennyon Brown and singer Bina Butta, who kept the energy high with their trending hits. The performance includes the Samoan-born singer Marina Davis taking the evening with her acclaimed Pacific anthems and addition cover songs.
Governor Parkop emphasized that the festival highlights a cultural exchange, emphasizing the value of preserving cultural traditions and fostering regional unity.
The historic Float Festival successfully brought Port Moresby’s communities together to celebrate Pacific diversity, fulfilling its goal of promoting cultural pride, inspiration, and togetherness.