Aotearoa New Zealand has revealed that the Gagana Samoa is the most widely spoken Pacific language in the country with 110,541 speakers. 

This statistic released by Statistics NZ highlighted Samoa at the top compared to 11 other Pacific country languages.

National University of Samoa's Director for Samoan Studies, Ta’iao Matiu Dr Matavai Tautunu expressed immense pride in the findings.

“I am so happy to see that Gagana Samoa is thriving in New Zealand. It’s a proud moment for myself and our community, as our people, even those born outside Samoa, are eager to uphold and share their language,” said Ta'iao.

He stressed that embracing one’s culture is a source of happiness and encouragement. Moreover, Ta'iao emphasized the role of educators in preserving language. 

“This is also a good moment for those teachers who are bilingual and teach the Samoan language. It also starts with parents at home - when they teach their children,” he said. 

"Going back to basics and what I mean about that is sitting down, speaking to the children about the language - there's a saying that parents are the first teachers of their children and that is where it all starts."

He acknowledged initiatives that reinforce language use, such as cultural festivals like Polyfest which celebrate a diversity of cultures and, in particular, the Samoan traditions that foster engagement among younger generations. 

Alaimalo Joanna Sulusi-Vasa, an advocate for Samoan language preservation, echoed Ta'iao’s sentiments. Her motivation to preserve the culture stems from the Samoan proverb: 

"Oute mitamita i lau gagana ma maua'a i lou fa'asinomaga," she said.

"I am proud of my language and identity, and I aim to keep our Samoan traditions alive," said  Alaimalo.

Ta'iao and Alaimalo supported the importance of preserving the Samoan language and culture among youth, to create a community of learners and speakers not only of today but for future generations to come.

The statistics show growth potential, and through interviews with Ta'iao and Alaimalo, family engagement, cultural events, and digital advocacy are the future of Gagana Samoa. 

Lea Faka-Tonga emerges as the second most spoken language in New Zealand, boasting 37,752 speakers. Vosa Vaka Viti from Fiji follows in third place with 8,439 speakers, while Te Reo Maori Kuki Airani from the Cook Islands ranks fourth with 7,854 speakers. Other noteworthy languages include Vagahau Niua (4,035 speakers), Te Gana Tuvalu (3,396), and Te Taetae ni Kiribati (2,862). The report also highlights Te Gagana Tokelau, spoken by 2,406 individuals, and Faeag Rotuam Ta, with 369 speakers. Additionally, Niugini Tok Pisin from Papua New Guinea has 354 speakers, and Aelan Pijin from the Solomon Islands is noted with 330 speakers