The first Pasifika Councillor elected to local government anywhere in Aotearoa, Tala is a regular at Craig & Gail’s Café.
She speaks to us about her amazing life, and what this place means to her:
This year, I turn 94 years old. I was born in Western Samoa in 1931, and came to New Zealand when I was 24. I loved Wellington, and decided to make it my home.
I worked in various jobs across the city before I met my husband and got married. I became a full-time mum, raising our five children and organising our home – I even renovated the whole house! I’m pleased to say that my son’s family still lives there to this day.
When I was working, I’d noticed that Pacific people were treated very differently from the Europeans in the workforce. So when my children grew up, I wanted to show that we were good, skilled people. I opened the first Pacific Island shop in New Zealand, selling beautiful handmade items from the islands, like weavings, jewellery and wood carvings.
I later started a Pacific Island resource centre on Willis Street. That was a seven-days-a-week thing, helping people from the community who needed some support through desperate times in their lives. I was also the first President of the Pacific Island Women’s Organisation. Then, in 1979, I became the first Pasifika Councillor for Wellington City Council – also making me the first Pasifika person elected to local government in New Zealand. I did that until 1995, so I always kept very busy!
My husband passed away in 2012, and since then I have been living by myself. My home can get very lonely during the day so it makes for not a very nice place to be. Recently, my doctor told me I was unable to renew my license because of my age, which I’m really sad about because it’s much harder for me to get around.
But I am so happy that I can come to a place like Whakamaru! The Mission has always given people a place to go when you are alone, and Whakamaru is just the best. Craig & Gail’s is a big space where everyone feels welcome, and there are always lots of interesting things happening. The other guests, volunteers and staff are such kind people. I always look forward to coming in and seeing the new friends I’ve made, meeting new people, and enjoying the great food. I would be here every day if I could! For me, whenever I am feeling down, Whakamaru comes to my mind.
I’m so proud that Wellington has such a magnificent place for our people, some of whom really need this place. I’m very grateful to everyone who donates to The Mission. Your loving support provides us with a beautiful place and excellent services, and makes us want to be here. This isn’t just a beautiful building, it has a beautiful feeling. Whakamaru is my home too, and I thank you for opening your doors to people like me!
