Samoan in New Zealand
Photo Source:
Masters View / Howard Erickson
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| People Name: | Samoan |
| Country: | New Zealand |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 60,000 |
| World Population: | 466,300 |
| Primary Language: | Samoan |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 97.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 18.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Polynesian |
| Affinity Bloc: | Pacific Islanders |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Samoan people are indigenous Polynesians whose culture and language have played a foundational role in the development of Eastern Polynesian societies. Samoa is considered one of the oldest Polynesian cultures, with oral traditions and genealogies tracing back thousands of years. European contact began in the 18th century, and Christian missionaries arrived in the 1830s, leading to widespread conversion. They live on the Pacific Islands of Samoa, American Samoa, and Fiji. Others have migrated to the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
New Zealand administered Samoa during a good part of the 20th century. Large numbers migrated to New Zealand from the 1950s-70s.
What Are Their Lives Like?
In New Zealand, Samoans adapt to an urban lifestyle with all its pressures … and opportunities.
At home most speak Samoan, though all speak English elsewhere. They have left their mark in New Zealand in all kinds of entertainment venues. One is a famous worship leader and song writer.
Samoan society is deeply communal, structured around extended families (aiga). Cultural values emphasize respect, hospitality, and communal responsibility. Traditional arts such as tattooing (tatau), dance (siva), and storytelling remain vibrant, even in New Zealand.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Christianity is central to Samoan identity. The dominant denomination is the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa, followed by Roman Catholics, Methodists, and Latter-Day Saints. Churches are prominent in every village, and Sunday worship is widely observed. Christianity has been integrated with traditional values, and many Samoans view their faith as inseparable from their cultural heritage.
What Are Their Needs?
Samoans need revival fire to stir them to take the gospel to the lost in New Zealand.
Prayer Points
Pray for strong Christians to disciple others among the Samoan youth.
Pray for unity and spiritual vitality among churches across denominations.
Pray that Samoan believers will be mobilized for mission work in New Zealand.