New digital repository opens Pacific scholarship to the world

Pacific research created at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland is now more accessible than ever through the launch of Measina o le Pasefika, Treasures of the Pacific, a new digital repository designed to preserve, showcase and share Pacific scholarship with communities across Aotearoa and the wider Pacific.

Officially launched by Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Professor Fonoiā Jemaima Tiatia-Siau at the Fa'anānā Efeso Collins Space in the General Library on 8 October, the repository brings together Pacific research in a searchable online platform, making it easier for students, academics, communities and future generations to discover, access and engage with Pacific knowledge.

Named by Professor Tiatia-Siau, Measina o le Pasefika is intended to be more than a digital archive.

"It’s more than a digital repository. It is a living vessel of Pacific scholarship, connecting past, present and future generations while ensuring Pacific voices, identities, and ways of knowing, being and doing are preserved, celebrated and accessible for generations to come," she says.

Developed through a partnership between Fofonga for Pacific Research Excellence and Te Kahu Tauira, Student Scholarly Services, the repository responds to a growing need for Pacific research to be visible, discoverable and accessible beyond academic circles.

Opening the launch, Fofonga Director Dr Charmaine 'Ilaiū Talei said Pacific knowledge must reach the communities it is intended to serve.

"Research should not remain confined to the ivory tower. Measina o le Pasefika is about ensuring Pacific knowledge reaches those who need it the most, namely our communities we serve, the government policymakers, our funders, and our potential collaborators.”

Dr ‘Ilaiū Talei acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project, highlighting the partnership between Fofonga and Rachel Chidlow and Dr Jo Simons from Te Kahu Tauira as critical to bringing the repository to life.

She also recognised Fofonga research assistants Arielle Carke and Vaiola Tauti, who worked closely with researchers engaged in Pacific research across the University, inviting researchers to contribute their scholarship to the platform.

"Thank you to all our researchers for entrusting us with your work. This repository celebrates your amazing research. It reflects the power of partnership and our collective commitment to ensuring Pacific knowledge is accessible to all."

The platform is expected to strengthen the visibility, reach and impact of Pacific research by creating a dedicated space where Pacific scholarship can be more easily discovered, shared and celebrated.

The repository also features original artwork by Tongan artist Benjamin Work, inspired by the concept of measina and the kupesi Humu (triggerfish). The artwork reflects the ancient relationship between seascape and skyscape, symbolising navigation, connection and the transmission of knowledge across generations.

For Pacific researchers, Measina o le Pasefika represents an important investment in visibility, accessibility and legacy. By creating a permanent home for Pacific scholarship, the repository ensures Pacific research, innovation and storytelling remain readily available to inform research, policy, teaching and community development for generations to come.