Story: Samoans

After troubled beginnings, including early conflict in Samoa and the infamous Dawn Raids of the mid-1970s, the New Zealand–Samoa story has been one of proud achievement. New Zealand Samoans star on the stage, in concert halls and art galleries, and on the sports field. And like other Pacific Islanders, young Samoans are forging a vibrant new identity through music, language and fashion.

Story by Lupematasila Melani Anae
Main image: Vitoria Faasoo plays cricket

Story summary

All images & media in this story

Homeland

Samoans came to New Zealand from two islands in Samoa: Upolu and Savai‘i. They are hilly, with palm trees and attractive beaches along the coastlines. Samoa is a very Christian country, and there are many large and beautiful churches.

Migrations

New Zealand ruled Western Samoa from 1914 to 1962. In the 1960s and 1970s, large numbers of Samoans came to New Zealand for jobs, many travelling on temporary visas. In the mid-1970s, the police came into the homes of some who had overstayed their visas, and many were sent back to Samoa. The New Zealand government formally apologised for these events in 2021.

Samoans continue to come to New Zealand for work and to join their families. Two-thirds of New Zealand’s Samoans live in the ‘Pacific capital’, Auckland. Frequent travel between Samoa and New Zealand has kept families living in both countries closely connected.

Culture

Samoans brought to New Zealand their strong beliefs in Christianity and the importance of aiga (family). Their traditions are that children should respect, serve and obey their elders. Samoans work hard to maintain contact with family members across the seas. Some younger Samoans born in New Zealand cities have found it difficult to accept these rules. Unable to speak Samoan, they have found enjoyment and support in an urban culture with distinctive dancing, music, language and clothing. With other young Pacific Islanders they have made a new PI (Pacific Island) identity.

Contributions

Many Samoans have been highly successful in New Zealand and made significant contributions to their new home. They include playwrights and novelists, artists, sportspeople, and musicians ranging from hip hop to classical. In all these fields, Samoans have greatly enriched New Zealand life.

How to cite this page:

Lupematasila Melani Anae, 'Samoans', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/samoans (accessed 19 March 2024)

Story by Lupematasila Melani Anae, published 8 February 2005, reviewed & revised 7 September 2022 with assistance from  Lupematasila Melani Anae