Samoans in NZ

This year’s theme is Fa’aauau le Folauga i le Va’a o Tautai, which means "Continue the Voyage with Competent Wayfinders of the Ocean".

"This reflects the journey of the language, revitalisation and maintenance", says Aupito William Sio, "as well as recognising the importance of having the right tools, good leadership skills, relationship and the correct medium". ​

Aupito says sustaining Pacific languages is even more important as populations spread overseas. 

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."