Jonah Lomu's life celebrated in two events
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27/11/2015. 00:15
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There will be two public Auckland events to celebrate the life of Jonah Lomu.
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Aho Faka Famili (Day of the Family): Saturday 28 November, from noon – Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Wiri, Manukau
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Public Farewell Service: Monday 30 November, 1pm-3pm – Eden Park, Reimers Ave, Kingsland
Pasifika communities will pay traditional tributes to Jonah Lomu at a unique celebration of his life in Manukau on Saturday, ahead of the official memorial service at Eden Park on Monday.
The ’Aho Faka Famili – a special opportunity for Pasifika communities to acknowledge Jonah according to their traditions - will be held on Saturday at the Vodafone Events Centre in South Auckland.
“This is a way for Pasifika communities to respect their traditions, through oratory, music and gifts,” Mayor Len Brown said.
Many groups have already confirmed their wish to take part in the ‘Aho Faka Famili event. Any other groups that would like to be part of the traditional cultural celebration of Jonah’s life are asked to contact Hana Moemalo in the Office of the Mayor by 10am Friday 27 November by emailing hana.moemalo@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or calling on 09-890 4845 or 021-046 1398 by 10am on Friday 27 November.
The ‘Aho Faka Famili event will start at midday on Saturday 28 November at the Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Road, Wiri in Manukau City.
Doors open at 11am and people are asked to dress respectfully and refrain from using mobile phones or cameras inside the arena, during the event.
Mayor Len Brown says the thoughts of Aucklanders at this time are first and foremost with Jonah’s family.
“People from across the spectrum of the community feel a particular bond with an Aucklander who we are proud to call one of our greatest sons.”
Jonah’s brother John Lomu says their family is grateful to Auckland Council and to the communities of South Auckland for supporting the family’s desire to adhere to their traditions.
“We know that Jonah was treasured by New Zealanders and people all over the world. For us, he was a brother, a son, and a man who was proud of his roots,” he said.
Saturday's event will be followed by a public service to be held on Monday 30 November from 1pm to 3pm at Eden Park. Large numbers of people are expected, so plan your trip and travel early. Parking around the venue is limited so consider public transport options.
A private funeral for Jonah will be held on Tuesday 1 December.