Jason Tiatia, author of Sāmoan Made Simple, celebrates Sāmoan language week with some staples.

For a lot of us, learning gagana Sāmoa doesn’t start in a classroom, it starts at home. In my case, it started with my mum, who taught me the language of alofa (love) and fa‘asāmoa (the Sāmoan way), and made sure I understood that language is more than just words.

My parents arrived in Aotearoa in the late 1960s, carrying their culture with them through a time marked by the dawn raids and widespread discrimination against Pacific people. Even in that environment, my mum held firm to what mattered. She would often remind me:

To‘aga e a‘o lau gagana ina ia mālosi ai lou fa‘asinomaga ma ia maua ai sou manuia. Keep learning your language in order for you to understand who you are, and blessings will come of it.

Her words have stuck with me throughout my life. I realise now that learning my language hasn’t been just about mastering words — it’s been about connecting with my identity and the legacy of my ancestors.

The good news is you don’t need to be fluent to start using gagana Sāmoa. You can start small with the phrases you use every day.

Here are 10 you can start with:

1. Tālofa lava – Hello / Warm greetings

While “tālofa” is more of a casual “hello”, “tālofa lava” carries warmth. It’s a way of acknowledging someone properly, whether you’re greeting a friend, family member, or someone new.

2. Fa’afetai – Thank you

Gratitude is central in Sāmoan culture, and fa’afetai is one of the most important words you can learn. Use it often, for big things, small things, and everything in between.

3. Fa’amolemole – Please

Adding fa’amolemole to a request softens your tone and shows respect. It’s a simple way to make everyday interactions more thoughtful and culturally grounded.

4. O ā mai oe? – How are you?

This phrase opens the door to connection. It’s an invitation to check in and show genuine care for someone else.

5. Manuia, fa’afetai – I’m good, thank you

A natural response to “O ā mai oe?”, this phrase keeps the conversation flowing while expressing appreciation at the same time.

6. O ai lou igoa? – What is your name?

Introductions matter. Asking someone’s name in Sāmoan is a great way to build rapport and show you’re making an effort to engage in the language.

7. O lo’u igoa o… – My name is…

Pair this with the question above and you’ve got a full introduction. It’s a simple start and a great confidence booster for beginners.

8. Toe feiloa’i – See you again

Rather than a final goodbye, toe feiloa’i carries the sense that you’ll meet again. It reflects the relational nature of Sāmoan culture where connections don’t just end.

9. Manuia le aso – Have a good day

A kind and uplifting phrase to end a conversation, whether you’re parting ways at work, school, or home.

10. Tulou – Excuse me / Sorry (respectful)

Used when moving past people, interrupting, or acknowledging a situation respectfully. It reflects awareness and respect for others.

Keeping gagana Sāmoa alive isn’t about being perfect. It’s about using what you know, as often as you can. These phrases are a starting point and from there, you just keep going.

Sāmoan Made Simple by Jason Tiatia ($35, Penguin) is available to purchase from Unity Books.