How are you?

Henry | Ōtautahi

When Henry’s family first moved from Sāmoa to Aotearoa for greater opportunity, there were few other Pasifika faces in Christchurch. He has watched the community grow over the years and become a vibrant part of the city. 

“We’ve just become so strong together. It’s like nothing can break us apart.

To be honest, life is good at the moment. I married the love of my life, and I have five beautiful, amazing children that always appreciate what we do. Without them, I honestly don’t know where I’d be.

With my wife, she had no family here. So, we slowly started bringing her family over. Same story as my parents—bring them over for a better life, a better future.

Having a strong Sāmoan-based community too is awesome. Back when I was first here, there weren’t many brown faces around. So, seeing more brown faces now is pretty awesome.”