13/10/2024
Monuina e Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue - ‘Leveki mo e Feaki e Vagahau Niue ma Anoiha’
As Niue celebrates 50 years of Self Government, I wanted to share some stories of Niueans who have in some way, inspired me in life…
I wanna start with my Foundation - My Grandparents- The late Tusa Lasalo Tauelima and the late Moli Sosafina Tauelima (nee Fatatautama)
Both born in Fineone, Hakupu Atua, they migrated separately to New Zealand, where they reconnected after knowing each other from home. It was in NZ that their relationship blossomed into a loving marriage, leading to a legacy of three daughters, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. As migrants, they worked hard to purchase their forever home in West Auckland, overcoming challenges such as adapting to a different climate, navigating a foreign language, and embracing a new culture, all while raising their family and building a life together. They worked tirelessly to ensure we had the necessities to take advantage of every opportunity. Though they moved from their motherland, Niue culture was never far from our home; my grandparents filled our house with singing, dancing, food, stories, and the presence of extended family, often welcoming others from Niue to live with them as they established themselves in New Zealand. Through church activities, village sports, and various functions, we were immersed in customs such as hifi ulu (hair cuttings) and huki tilinga (ear piercings), as well as celebrations of birthdays, weddings, and funerals, keeping our heritage alive and vibrant.
Nana and Grandad, your hard work, sacrifices, and determination to provide a better future for us have not been in vain. We thank you for your unconditional love as we continue to remember who we are and where we come from.
📸 This picture used to hang in their kitchen, always been one of my favourites 💛
