Nukutere in the Evening, the school’s end of the year Christmas programme, was a celebration filled with performances, joy and community spirit.

Held on Wednesday evening, the event was guided under the theme, “At the heart of Christmas, despite our diverse backgrounds, is Jesus Christ and the promise of unity”.

It offered an opportunity to reflect on the diverse cultures represented at the school, and celebrate the importance of multiculturalism.

Iokimi Narovu, a member of the school’s Special Character Committee and a teacher at the college, explained that the evening was about much more than just Christmas celebrations.

“It’s called Nukutere in the Evening, and it’s a time for us to celebrate Christmas and share that joy with the community,” Narovu said.

The annual event, held just before students head home for the festive break after a year of studies, is a chance to give back to the community while celebrating the season of goodwill.

Narovu went on to explain the theme for this year’s event, cultural diversity.

“We are trying to bridge the gap between the different cultures coming into our island,” he said, highlighting that with migration and the movement of people, it was important for students to understand and appreciate different cultural traditions.

“Most of our children here at Nukutere College come from diverse backgrounds, including Kiribati, the Philippines, Fiji, and Samoa. It’s important for them to appreciate the beauty of other cultures beyond the Cook Islands,” Narovu, who hails from Fiji, emphasised.

The event was a showcase of the school’s various cultures, with performances from students in Years 7 to 10.

The audience was treated to a series of lively and captivating acts that highlighted both local and international traditions.

The inclusion of multiple cultures in the performances not only entertained but also educated those in attendance about the rich variety of customs, values and beliefs that shape the world around them, Narovu stressed.

The evening’s programme was enhanced by the presence of the head of the Catholic Church, Father Reynaldo Bunyi Getalado, who opened and closed the event with prayers, grounding the night in faith and community spirit.

He set the tone for a night of unity and joy, reminding everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.

For many, the highlight of the night was the sense of togetherness that was delivered by the students at the event.

Narovu concluded the evening with a message of goodwill to all.

“I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” he said.