Gagana Sāmoa
A range of free NZQA-approved courses designed to help you learn Gagana Sāmoa, the Sāmoan language.
Explore our Sāmoan Language courses
Select a course from the options below:
Suitable for
This course is right for you if you’re a beginner learner who’s never spoken Sāmoan before, or you have a basic understanding but want to gain confidence in using the language. The course is taught in English so learners do not need to be fluent in gagana Sāmoa. It’s designed to help learners develop their language (gagana Sāmoa) and cultural knowledge (fa’aSāmoa).
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
Learners will gain the basic skills and knowledge of gagana Sāmoa at an introduction level, as well as get an introductory understanding of the fa’aSāmoa.
Students will learn key information essential in any Pacific cultural context to communicate information about your identity:
- your name
- your home
- your family, grandparents and ancestors (your family tree)
- your village links
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to introduce yourself confidently with these key facts.
The course will also cover how to introduce yourself and how to respond to introductions. This is not the formal matai level of gagana Sāmoa, but covers simple introductions equivalent to hello, good morning, good afternoon and good evening.
You’ll gain an introduction into the language used at key Pacific life events, such as birthdays, weddings and funerals.
Students who complete the course will have developed the knowledge and skills to be able to use greetings, build their vocabulary, converse at a basic level in a Pacific language, and act in a culturally appropriate way as expected in the fa’aSāmoa.
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
| 22 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age, or 13 years of age with adult approval and supervision. This can be a parent, guardian or sibling over 16 years of age who will attend the class with any 13-15 year old.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is intended for people want to have simple conversations with friends, family and workmates in gagana Sāmoa.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
In our online Sāmoan language classes, students will learn through listening and communicating, with a focus on accuracy and pronunciation. Learners will build knowledge that may include key family roles and increasing knowledge of:
- Honorific terms and language skills
- Your family tree
- Speaking about your relationship to your surroundings
You’ll strengthen knowledge around Sāmoan life-events and customary gift giving to help build your understanding of fa’aSāmoa. Conversations will cover directions, places, seasons and enable you to present a simple opinion about a fa’aSāmoa cultural practice.
Learners will use role-play activities, and by the end of the course be able to deliver individual presentations in the form of a speech. People who complete this course will have learned at least 200 simple words used in everyday conversation and have a knowledge of basic punctuation and grammar.
This course is taught in English so you don’t need to be fluent in gagana Sāmoa, but you should have a good understanding of the basics.
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 21 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age; or 13 years of age with adult approval and supervision. This can be a parent, guardian or sibling over 16 years of age who will attend the class with any 13-15 year old.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is intended for people who want to further develop and polish their Pacific language skills, including cultural and historical knowledge. At Level 2, it’s expected that learners will have prior knowledge of gagana Sāmoa already.
Learners will explore and build cultural and historical knowledge while engaging, practicing speaking and listening.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
Students will learn how to communicate key information about:
- Relationships between people in the family and/or community settings
- Communicating life-events using the correct terminology in family situations
- How to understand the importance of cultural behaviours/habits and taboos
- The cultural tools for gift-giving
Students who complete the course will be able to communicate key facts and social norms about Sāmoa and it’s leadership, as well as be able to demonstrate indigenous cultural and historical knowledge about Sāmoa. By the end of the course, learners should know at least 300 simple words which can be used in a conversation with friends and family in the home, workplace and community.
Students who complete the course should also be able to demonstrate Sāmoan cultural protocols within a formal setting.
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 22 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age; or 13 years of age with adult approval and supervision. This can be a parent, guardian or sibling over 16 years of age who will attend the class with any 13-15 year old.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is suitable for both men and women who have been raised in Aotearoa NZ, who have a working knowledge of gagana Sāmoa and who are current or potential holders of Sāmoan matai title, or have an interest in and who want to learn about the Sāmoan Fa’amatai system.
The course has been designed for Sāmoan people to build confidence in their language and to put into practice Sāmoan values, protocols and practices in a supportive class environment.
This is NOT a Sāmoan Oratory course. Rather, this course will explain the different types of oratory used in fa’amatai cultural protocols and break them down in detail. The course will discuss Sāmoan cultural protocols and values and understanding the role of matai here in Aotearoa NZ.
By the end of this course, leaners will be able to:
- Give a lauga (speech) that uses appropriate honorifics
- Use metaphors and alagaupu (proverbial expressions)
- Build on Sāmoan genealogies (fa’alupega)
Students will learn how to present themselves in accordance with their status in the community and apply specific skills appropriate to the cultural events that they may be required to participate in.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
Each week learners will be introduced to an aspect of fa’aSāmoa (such as the various oratory expectations at a wedding, funeral, birthday, church event etc) and work through the key elements of a lauga appropriate to your role as a matai (Ali’i or Tulafale). The content can include understanding cultural protocols and values such a vā, the ‘ava ceremony, opening and closing speeches, thank you speeches etc.
There are three levels of courses that cover the same content:
- Intro – taught in English, and ideal for new matai or those who are considering receiving a matai title
- Intermediate – taught bilingually, and ideal for those matai who have a good command of gagana Sāmoa
- Advanced – taught mostly in gagana Sāmoa, and ideal for those matai who are already operating as matai, but require more practice and wish to learn more ‘advanced’ aspects of the language to improve their oratory skills
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 19 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age. This course is suited to adults who are already matai (a Sāmoan chief) or are considering becoming one. Although you do not have to be a fluent speaker, it is helpful to have a good understanding of everyday gagana Sāmoa.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is suitable for both men and women who have been raised in Aotearoa NZ, who have a working knowledge of gagana Sāmoa and who are current or potential holders of Sāmoan matai title, or have an interest in and who want to learn about the Sāmoan Fa’amatai system.
The course has been designed for Sāmoan people to build confidence in their language and to put into practice Sāmoan values, protocols and practices in a supportive class environment.
This is NOT a Sāmoan Oratory course. Rather, this course will explain the different types of oratory used in fa’amatai cultural protocols and break them down in detail. The course will discuss Sāmoan cultural protocols and values and understanding the role of matai here in Aotearoa NZ.
By the end of this course, leaners will be able to:
- Give a lauga (speech) that uses appropriate honorifics
- Use metaphors and alagaupu (proverbial expressions)
- Build on Sāmoan genealogies (fa’alupega)
Students will learn how to present themselves in accordance with their status in the community and apply specific skills appropriate to the cultural events that they may be required to participate in.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
Each week learners will be introduced to an aspect of fa’aSāmoa (such as the various oratory expectations at a wedding, funeral, birthday, church event etc) and work through the key elements of a lauga appropriate to your role as a matai (Ali’i or Tulafale). The content can include understanding cultural protocols and values such a vā, the ‘ava ceremony, opening and closing speeches, thank you speeches etc.
There are three levels of courses that cover the same content:
- Intro – taught in English, and ideal for new matai or those who are considering receiving a matai title
- Intermediate – taught bilingually, and ideal for those matai who have a good command of gagana Sāmoa
- Advanced – taught mostly in gagana Sāmoa, and ideal for those matai who are already operating as matai, but require more practice and wish to learn more ‘advanced’ aspects of the language to improve their oratory skills
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age. This course is suited to adults who are already matai (a Sāmoan chief) or are considering becoming one. Although you do not have to be a fluent speaker, it is helpful to have a good understanding of everyday gagana Sāmoa.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is suitable for both men and women who have been raised in Aotearoa NZ, who have a working knowledge of gagana Sāmoa and who are current or potential holders of Sāmoan matai title, or have an interest in and who want to learn about the Sāmoan Fa’amatai system.
The course has been designed for Sāmoan people to build confidence in their language and to put into practice Sāmoan values, protocols and practices in a supportive class environment.
This is NOT a Sāmoan Oratory course. Rather, this course will explain the different types of oratory used in fa’amatai cultural protocols and break them down in detail. The course will discuss Sāmoan cultural protocols and values and understanding the role of matai here in Aotearoa NZ.
By the end of this course, leaners will be able to:
- Give a lauga (speech) that uses appropriate honorifics
- Use metaphors and alagaupu (proverbial expressions)
- Build on Sāmoan genealogies (fa’alupega)
Students will learn how to present themselves in accordance with their status in the community and apply specific skills appropriate to the cultural events that they may be required to participate in.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop rather than a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements can be found in the FAQs.
Course content
Each week learners will be introduced to an aspect of fa’aSāmoa (such as the various oratory expectations at a wedding, funeral, birthday, church event etc) and work through the key elements of a lauga appropriate to your role as a matai (Ali’i or Tulafale). The content can include understanding cultural protocols and values such a vā, the ‘ava ceremony, opening and closing speeches, thank you speeches etc.
There are three levels of courses that cover the same content:
- Intro – taught in English, and ideal for new matai or those who are considering receiving a matai title
- Intermediate – taught bilingually, and ideal for those matai who have a good command of gagana Sāmoa
- Advanced – taught mostly in gagana Sāmoa, and ideal for those matai who are already operating as matai, but require more practice and wish to learn more ‘advanced’ aspects of the language to improve their oratory skills
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 21 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age. This course is suited to adults who are already matai (a Sāmoan chief) or are considering becoming one. Although you do not have to be a fluent speaker, it is helpful to have a good understanding of everyday gagana Sāmoa.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
Suitable for
This course is suitable for both men and women who have been raised in Aotearoa NZ, who are fluent speakers of gagana Sāmoa and who are current or potential holders of Sāmoan matai title. You’ll already have a strong understanding of the fa’amatai protocols and practices, and wish to focus specifically on the oratory skills of a tulafale (speaking chief). The course is also suitable for those matai who hold an Ali’i (high chief) title who wish to gain further understanding of the art of Sāmoan oratory.
This course is taught in gagana Sāmoa, and is suitable for fluent Sāmoan speakers.
Course duration
Taught over 10 weeks, students will join a 2-hour tutor facilitated class per week, and spend at least 1 hour per week doing revision and practice. Courses are a total of 30 hours of learning and practice.
What you need to do the course
This course is taught online. Learners must have access to a digital device (preferably a computer or laptop and not a smart phone) and a stable internet connection. Minimum hardware requirements are in the FAQs.
Course content
This course is focused on the skill of Sāmoan oratory. It focuses on understanding the key aspects of oratory for common Sāmoan life events, such as birthdays, weddings, funerals, saufa’i, ‘ava etc. The course will cover:
- The cultural knowledge and understanding of these events
- Who is participating and in what capacity
- Crafting an appropriate lauga (speech).
Classes will include doing an analysis of a lauga, and then working to develop your own lauga using the key aspects (such as honorifics, alagaupu, bible quotes, fa’alupega references, local village knowledge and set memorised structures). You’ll learn how to address matai from various villages; faife’au and VIPs.
This is a practical course, and after completing it, learners will be able to demonstrate a prepared speech for a set role play (such as an ‘ava, or hosting VIPs).
Fees
Free
| Start date | End date | Enrol |
|---|---|---|
| 23 Sep. 2022 | 25 Nov. 2022 | Register Interest |
Entry requirements
Applicants must be NZ Citizens, or permanent residents and be over 16 years of age. This course is suited to adults who are already matai (a Sāmoan chief) or are considering becoming one. This course is suitable for those who are already fluent speakers of gagana Sāmoa.
Tutors
Your friendly tutors for this course:
Pacific Language Course Resources
We have a number of resources available to support you on your learning journey
The pace was really great for a beginner. I enjoyed being able to say something new at the end of every zoom lesson!
Julienne
Introduction to Gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan Language), Culture & Identity
The interactive nature of the class, being able to share and collaborate in our learning was very important. I enjoyed the relaxed format and Sa’uila being approachable and facilitating all our requests & learning styles.
Junior
Sāmoan Fa’amatai Bi-lingual Training (Introduction level).
Learning about my culture, although I knew of some aspects already, this course gave me clear explanation and understanding about detail related to them that I did not know, something that is not always clearly learnt from my family members. I really enjoyed the variety of learning tools and the ability to discuss and learn from and with others.
Susan
Maintaining gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan language) and culture.
I enjoyed EVERYTHING - 1. I learnt more than I had expected/anticipated; 2. All learning was very relevant; 3. Interaction with the class was very engaging and fun; 4. Having x2 tutors for support was very beneficial, particularly when assisting during breakout rooms; 5. Very enjoyable and a highlight to my week.
Helen
Everyday Conversation in gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan Language) and culture
Somehow Tanielu was able to bridge the gap of online learning and make it feel as though we were all together in one room. I am really impressed with his ability to keep us all accountable. I work in a job we have to teach online and this was PD for me in that regard. He honoured and respected all our journeys and pushed us hard and had high expectations for us all.
Daniela
Introduction to Gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan Language), Culture & Identity
I really enjoyed the sharing of our Tutor and elders of the class, their wisdom and knowledge regarding the Sāmoan heritage and Oratory language.
Phillip
Sāmoan Oratory
Alofa has a charismatic personality and is the main reason I have enjoyed this class. Alofa made everyone feel comfortable with practicing our pronunciation and helped with questions we had about similar sounding words, answering inquiries we had about words we have heard before and clarifying what they meant and when it was appropriate to use certain words. Alofa is a fun tutor to learn from and has reignited my love for my language and culture. Fa'afetai lava for sharing your knowledge!
Donnalena
Introduction to Gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan Language), Culture & Identity
The interactive nature of the class, being able to share and collaborate in our learning was very important. The relaxed format; Sonny being approachable and facilitating all our requests & learning styles.
Junior
Sāmoan Oratory
I enjoyed challenging myself to speak total Sāmoan. I enjoyed meeting new people who are on the same journey, the tutor was amazing and lovely hearing peoples experiences and ideas.
Tasi
Maintaining gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan language) and culture.
I loved how interactive and engaging Tanielu was. He provided a safe space for everyone to learn. He was also very creative in how to make it engaging.
Edna
Introduction to Gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan Language), Culture & Identity
I enjoyed the different aspects of our class members different journeys, even those who were more advanced shared their knowledge and understood that we were all on different levels but our tutor Tauanu'u engaged with us and it was like we were in the same room, no one was treated any different and it was great that we could all learn together.
Grace
Sāmoan Fa’amatai Bi-lingual Training (Introduction level).
I really enjoyed Leuga's passion for our culture and customs and his explanations were understandable. He is very approachable and reachable even after class. He is very professional.
Siliga David
Sāmoan Fa’amatai Bi-lingual Training (Introduction level).
I enjoyed the content, sharing in a safe learning environment, encouraged to use the language in break-out rooms regardless of ability, and meeting new people.
Lene
Maintaining gagana Sāmoa (Sāmoan language) and culture.
Other than learning a lot about our Sāmoan history I enjoyed how engaging our tutor was with the class and meeting new people.
Vaonila
Sāmoan Oratory
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