People of Papatoetoe - Community Stories

Taro Patch Creative
Jul 24
3 min read

Who are you and where do you come from?

Si’oto’ofa and Mālō e lelei, my name is Rizván Halaholo Tu’itahi and I was born

and raised in Tonga before emigrating here to Aotearoa and spending my

teenage years on Auckland’s North Shore. I have now spent the majority of the

last decade in Papatoetoe.

What does Papatoetoe mean to you?

For me Papatoetoe means a unique South Auckland community experience because of the large Indian population. We have a lot of delicious Indian food and culture in the area which me and my family are exposed to, and love!

How long have you been part of the Papatoetoe community, and how has it shaped you?

I’ve been living in Papatoetoe for the last ten years but more specifically Old Papatoetoe in the past three.

Can you share a brief story or moment that captures your experience in Papatoetoe?

At Hunters Plaza, the escalator in the middle entrance up to City Fitness Gym has been out of order for years, and it always warms my heart when I see people helping elderly either lift their shopping trolley down to the carpark or carry their shopping to their cars. I’ve seen it happen so many times and it reminds me there are good people out there, always willing to lend a hand. Me and the boys have helped a few people with their trolleys, and people are always grateful.

What’s a quote, saying, or piece of advice that represents who you are?

“Think globally, act locally” which to me means, the mahi you do at the grassroots level can have national or international impact. It starts in the home, on your street, in the neighbourhood and ripples out to the world.

What drives you or gives you purpose in life?

My two boys also give me purpose and a desire to become a better person. I also feel that my drive and ambition comes from trying to help empower people through creativity and korero. I am blessed to be in several spaces in the community where I get to share stories and perspectives through art and talanoa.

Is there something you’re most proud of in your life or journey so far?

I am proud of my growth and progress in parenthood. It has been challenging at times, but I’ve been able to process those experiences and progress further with the support of family, friends and professionals.

Can you tell us about your business, mahi or community role?

I am a youth worker who helps run creative programs in the community for our young people, to help them create, connect, collaborate and korero, in a safe space.

How do you see your role contributing to the wider Papatoetoe community?

One of the programs we were running was called Talanoa Tuesday, which was held at Taro Patch Creative on Dunnotar Rd, had an open door policy where members of the community could come in and have conversations about life, community and holistic well-being, with other like-minded, like-hearted members of the community. I feel that this space was much needed and added value to the neighbourhood.

How can people support you or connect with what you do?

I work closely with Te Karanga Creative Community so check them out on socials and you can also connect to me directly under @NorthCityRizzy.

What makes our community special? What makes it uniquely ‘Pap’?

I think I answered that earlier referring to the significant Indian demographic in the area that ultimately brings distinctive flavours of food, fashion and sounds to the community. This contributes to what makes Pap special. It’s still South Side but spicy.