Digital Vā: Pacific Perspectives on the Shift from ‘Ordinary Practices’ to ‘Extraordinary Spaces’ During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Aotearoa/New Zealand

Abstract

The emergence of the COVID-19 virus has significantly shifted the lives of Pacific families and communities from face-to-face communal settings to digital spaces. While there has been a multitude of opportunities for Pacific people to express themselves in digital spaces, little is known about the impacts of this on social life, including on quality time within families, exposure to misinformation, and the adoption of online addictive behaviours. This article sets out to critically review and explore the impacts and influences of digital experiences and behaviours on Pacific peoples in Aotearoa/New Zealand, shifting from ordinary practices such as church, kava-drinking and educational learning, to online platforms. Vā (space) and tauhi vā (nurturing relationships) are also discussed as theoretical concepts in navigating the shift from ordinary practices to extraordinary spaces. Findings include the exposure to COVID-19-related misinformation and online addictive behaviours, which will better inform community leaders, services providers, and policy makers in addressing the digital impacts and influences that Pacific people may be facing in Aotearoa/NZ.