Established in the late 1980s, the centre's vision is to develop and support Pacific arts and cultural projects, with a focus on Pacific heritage art practices.

[6] This includes a schools programme where students learn some Pacific weaving, drumming and dance.

[5] The Pacifica Mamas Trust governs the annual Pacifica Living Arts Festival held at Corban Estate that consists of arts, crafts, traditional food and school groups performing.

[7] Pacifica Mamas Arts and Cultural Trust and the Pacifica Arts Centre receive funding from Creative New Zealand as part of the 2020 Toi Uru Kahikatea programme.

[8] Some members of the collective are Maria Fastnidge (Samoan/Chinese descent),[9] Mary Ama (Rarotonga), Mata Smith (Niue)[4] and Tiana Epati (Samoa).