About 130 people packed into Earnscleugh Hall, near Alexandra, to celebrate with music, food, speeches and a rousing rendition of the national anthem — Yumi, Yumi, Yumi (We, We, We).
This is the second time a pilot language week has been held for Bislama — one of Vanuatu’s national languages.
Ni-Vanuatu leader Ron Moses said he was very happy to see so many people gather to celebrate.
Vanuatu had about 80 islands and 113 indigenous languages.
Bislama was a common, unifying language, he said.
"Without Bislama, we wouldn’t have our independence."
He hoped the New Zealand government would continue to support the language through measures like the language week.
Mr Moses said he would like to see more orchard operators embrace the language which would build connections between them and Ni-Van workers.
Offering contracts or health and safety courses in Bislama would greatly benefit workers, he said.
Joan Lloyd, who organised last year’s Bislama Language week said "it’s an opportunity for them to get together and celebrate".
Awareness of Bislama was slowly growing, and even learning a few words could make a difference for Ni-Vanuatu.
"If you can say even one word in Bislama — it lifts them, it makes them feel connected."
Vanuatu gained independence from the UK and France on July 30, 1980.
