Tuimaleali'ifano succeeds Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Ta'isi Efi, who has completed ten years in office as Head of State.
The outgoing head of state of Samoa said it has been a privilege to serve his country and people.
RNZI reports in his farewell speech Tui Atua gave special thanks to the Prime Minister, Cabinet and Parliament.
He also paid tribute to the many people who helped make his and wife's Masiofo Filifilia's journey as Head of State a privilege that they can never repay or forget.
