Witness History The only Pope to visit New Zealand
Mar 24, 2026
Michael Jarka, a Polish–New Zealand community member who performed in a Polish dance group, recalls being at Pope John Paul II's 1986 open-air Mass in Auckland. He describes the packed Domain, costume preparations and rehearsals, the Maori welcome and cultural performances. He also remembers Solidarity banners in the crowd and the Pope's powerful call for peace and faith.
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Polish Dance Group Performs For The Pope
- Michael Jarka and a Polish dance group prepared costumes, wooden crosses and practised Sundays to welcome Pope John Paul II in Auckland Domain.
- They performed Krakowiak and Polonaise repeatedly as the Pope walked past, and he stopped to watch and smiled, saying "beautiful, lovely".
A Front Row View Thanks To Family Role
- Michael had a prime view of the open-air Mass because his father was involved in planning and service, placing them about 20–50 metres from the altar.
- He recalls the Pope in white vestments leading the Mass in English, making it easy for the crowd to follow and feel spiritually moved.
Religious Gathering As Space For Political Solidarity
- The crowd combined religious celebration with political solidarity, displaying Solidarity banners alongside flags during the 1986 visit.
- Michael noted wearing Solidarity symbols in Poland then would risk arrest, so showing them in New Zealand was an important act of distant support.