A unique event: Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga speaks at the ceremony in Auckland to mark New Zealand's occupation of German Samoa.

• Author: Lotu-Iiga, Peseta Sam

This special commemoration marks a unique event in the history of New Zealand and Samoa. At the outset of the First World War, New Zealand largely considered itself an outpost of Britain in the South Seas. Over the many decades New Zealand has come to recognise the value of our neighbours: Australia, Asia and nations of the South Pacific.

The common history that New Zealand and Samoa share has its origins in the occupation of German Samoa by New Zealand military forces one hundred years ago. This occupation was undertaken at the request of Britain and marks New Zealand's first military action in the Pacific.

The occupation started a relationship that has developed through the decades to one that we all enjoy today. It is a relationship that has had its peaks and troughs. It is a relationship that is based on friendship, shared values and a common vision for the future.

It is this common vision and strong friendship that our ancestors from New Zealand and Samoa expected and hoped for when they signed the Treaty of Friendship between New Zealand and Samoa in 1962. This relationship with Samoa has in turn helped New Zealand move from being a remote outpost of the British Empire to being an established Pacific nation.

New Zealand is now home to nearly 145,000 Samoans and Samoan is now the third most spoken language in New Zealand after English and Maori. The impact of Samoans in New Zealand has left an indelible mark on the identity and culture of New Zealand and will continue to do so. There are now Samoan members of Parliament, councillors and representatives in local government and others prominent in all walks of New Zealand life.

The contribution of Samoans to all aspects of New Zealand society can be found in things like the literary arts, culture, sports, music, business and community service. Samoans' significant contribution to New Zealand society is epitomised in the award last year of New Zealand's highest honour to Professor Maualaivao Albert Wendt. He is now a member of the Order of New Zealand, which is restricted to twenty living New Zealanders at any one time. It is awarded for outstanding service to the Crown and people of New Zealand.

Special period

Samoa's independence in 1962 also marked a special period in Samoa's history and the maturing of Samoa as a nation and as a people. We were proud to support its independence and since then we have worked closely together as colleagues, friends and aiga.

There are many examples of...