The family of Samoan opera singer Pene Pati say his achievement is something all Pacific people should be proud of. 

The comments come as a new documentary about Pati is drawing audiences across Aotearoa, but at its core, it is a family story. “Tenor: My Name is Pati” follows the internationally acclaimed tenor, known as a member of Sol3 Mio along with his brother Amitai, as he builds a career on some of the world’s biggest opera stages. 

Since its release in March, the film has earned more than $1 million at the New Zealand box office, a record for a locally released documentary.

Their father, Pene Pati Sr., said the family’s pride extends beyond their household.

“It’s very good. I’m very proud. My wife is very proud, and I think all of the Pacific should be proud,” he said. 

“Despite that, those are my boys; they’re sons of all of the Pacific.”

Also supporting the brothers was their sister Torre Pati.

“I’m really proud of both of them. If the younger one were here, I’d be mocking him too, but I am extremely proud of them.”

At the film’s premiere in Auckland, Pati returned home to be surrounded by loved ones.

“For the first time in a long time, I feel slightly overwhelmed, but in a good way,” he said.

“I look around and see everyone who has come in support.”

The documentary highlights the strong bond within the Pati family, from their upbringing in Māngere to their roots in Samoa. Pati and his younger brother Amitai, who also performs with Sol3 Mio, share not only a career in music but a close personal connection that is central to the film.

The film, directed by Rebecca Tansley, includes personal footage of the family’s life, showing how music was part of everyday life, from South Auckland homes to village gatherings in Samoa.

Tansley said Pati’s openness made the story resonate.

“He is so generous with himself, and that is what people experience when they see him and hear him perform,” she said.

The documentary also touches on challenges Pati faced, including prejudice early in his career, when a singing coach told him he would never succeed in opera because he was Samoan. More than a decade later, he has gone on to perform in leading opera houses in Europe.

Despite international success, the film shows that family remains at the centre of Pati’s journey, a source of strength, identity, and pride that continues to shape his path.