This paper draws on a study that examined the experiences of four high-achieving Pasifika
physiotherapy degree level students to identify factors contributing to their success.
As peer students, they identified five approaches that assisted them to become high
achievers within the tertiary environment. This paper refers specifically to these
approaches as peer-based Pasifika pedagogies (PbPP) and broadly as culturally responsive
practices. The aim of this paper is to examine how Pasifika pedagogies, such as PbPP
provide culturally responsive practices that can address the 'culture of silence'
while promoting the va relationality, the cultural nuances and norms of their worldview
as well as aligning it with modern pedagogies or tools to enhance success among Pasifika
students in the New Zealand tertiary education context.
