By Jesse Peach
Flights to Samoa are packed to the brim as hundreds make their way home for what is expected to be a very special Christmas.
Many are going back for the first time since the island was devastated by a tsunami in September, claiming at least 189 lives.
David Tua was in his home town of Mangere, but with Christmas approaching Tua says his true home – Samoa – is on his mind.
“I wish I was there, but it is what it is, so I hope that people can look past the devastation of what took place in Samoa and start enjoying themselves and look forward to the New Year.”
Mangere's local MP William Sio lived on the side of the island which was devastated by the tsunami.
He is looking forward to paying his respects to friends and relatives he lost.
“Help out, be amongst and carry the weight others have been carrying since the tsunami, but also to make our small contribution – whether it be through energy and time, or money,” he says.
Mr Sio believes there are more Samoans going back than usual this year.
“I suspect there'll be a lot of families just wanting to go back, see what it's like. I've had young nephews saying ‘I just want to go back and help clean up or something’.
“So yeah, it'll be very special this Christmas.”
Air New Zealand says bookings to Samoa have been exceptionally strong this year.
Departing passengers told us they expect this Christmas will not be the same.
“I think a lot of people will be celebrating the lives of those who passed away and those who are alive at this time.
“I think just giving thanks to God is what people will be celebrating. It will be quite different, a mellow kind of mood I guess,” said Helen Jackson.
Mapa Ala and her mum have not been back to Samoa for two years but say their people have the ability to make this Christmas a happy time.
“Samoan people, they are strong, so I'm sure they're going to celebrate Christmas for the people who can't.”
They say the one thing that definitely will not change is that Christmas in Samoa will be a true family time.
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