Story: Samoans

The Aukuso family learning Samoan

The Aukuso family learning Samoan

Many New Zealand-born Samoans understand the Samoan language, but do not speak it. This creates some confusion of identity for young Samoans. In the past some Samoan families wanted their children to speak English in order to progress in New Zealand. Recently many families, such as the Aukusos, have encouraged speaking Samoan at home. Here Tanupo Aukuso and his wife Nuu teach Samoan to their children (from left) Huteau, Loretta and Amilaina. 

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New Zealand Herald
Reference: 21 March 2001, p. A8
Photograph by Peter Meecham

Permission of the New Zealand Herald must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Lupematasila Melani Anae, 'Samoans - Culture and identity', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/1575/the-aukuso-family-learning-samoan (accessed 29 April 2024)

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