Preserving Hungarian Cultural Heritage through Films

‘It has been a privilege getting to know the community members who came to share their cultural knowledge and experience with us. By opening our school to these things, I think that we not only showed that they add value into our lives and enrichen our society but we also served to help the community members perpetuate and treasure their cultural expertise.

The movie ("Stop my Stepmom") was in Hungarian language with English subtitles, which made it possible for "mixed families" (Hungarian wife with Kiwi husband) to attend as well.

This was a very successful event, a first of its kind, and very well attended. Being so far away from our home country and having the opportunity to watch a movie ( going to a cinema is in itself a very fun event for adults and kids alike) in our mother tounge is such a special treat for families. For children of Hungarian descent who were born in New Zealand this was the first time they have ever seen a hungarian movie in a cinema, with other Hungarian people attending. Events like these reinforces in children their belonging and the importance of their cultural heritage; and deepens their friendships with other Hungarian children in their community.

We loved seeing families enjoying each others company and communicate in their mother tongue. After the movie we enjoyed some kai and then visited a nearby park with the children where they could burn some of their energy and the adults could continue some conversations about the movie and stories from their life etc. A favourite moment of the afternoon was when a member of our community (a 6 year old girl) happily shouted "Soooooooo many Hungarians here....." while chasing another Hungarian girl in the Park playing tag...This just shows how much children enjoy the company of their fellow Hungarians and how important events like these are for ethnic communities living in New Zealand.’ Julia Mak

33 people - 21 adults & 12 children