Three generations of Dunedin’s Samoan community came together last night to mark the 60th anniversary of the island nation’s independence.
Although many of those in Dunedin of Samoan descent had always called the city home, their links to the islands remained strong, Le Fono Fonofautua i Otago chairman Afamasaga Pavihi said.
Today Samoans in Dunedin were leaders in business, the arts, academia, and were respected members of the community.
Several speakers referenced the shock to the system the southern winter was to the first Samoans who came to Dunedin, but praised those who came before them for creating a home far from home.
The Dunedin Samoan community marks the 60th anniversary of independence at a special service at First Church last night. PHOTOS: LINDA ROBERTSON
"This celebration is very important to our Samoan people," he said when welcoming the packed congregation.
Deputy mayor Christine Garey, representing the city, said the first Samoan settlers had come to work in the city’s factories but immediately made a mark on the sporting fields and within the wider community.
The Rev Alofa Lale reads a prayer of thanksgiving
"They have made a terrific contribution to the city."
Although Western Samoa became independent from New Zealand on January 1, 1962, the occasion is marked on June 1.
