Samoa Independence day celebrations

Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio says there’s been some “rough waters” since independence from New Zealand.

“It is time for us to look back on 60 years, it’s time for us to give thanks to our God for the love that our community have received. 

"We’ve been challenged on that journey in many ways. There’s been rough waters throughout those 60 years but despite that we continue to be resilient,” says Aupito.​

Aupito said the celebration is significant for Samoans living in New Zealand and other parts of the world.

RNZI reports Samoa became independent on the first of January in 1962 after years of colonial rule but celebrate the day on June the 1st.

Leilani Momoisea went along to Richmond Road Primary School's Samoan language unit, Mua I Malae, and the Aoga Fa'aSamoa, an immersion Samoan early childhood centre, to join in the festivities.

"Talofa lava" "Fesoasoani." "Tofa." "Talofa lava means hello. "Fesoasoani means helping.' "Tofa means good-bye."