An early Samoan Xmas

BY HANNAH NORTON

Rugby legend Peter "Fats" Fatialofa has turned into Santa with a Samoan twist so children in his tsunami-ravaged homeland can have some sort of Christmas this year.

Sporting a red Santa hat, red tropical shirt and red lavalava, he’s urging Manukau people to donate shoeboxes of little gifts.

As well as toys, ideas for gifts to put in the shoeboxes include stationery such as pens, pencils, crayons and exercise books, school bags and uniforms.

"With the tsunami there’s been a lot of support from New Zealand and around the world with clothes, food, water and infrastructure.

"Even with all that, the kids are still going to have a really bleak Christmas.

"A lot of kids are still going to be without homes, let alone Christmas presents."

Together with New Zealand-based Pacific promotions company Event Polynesia, Mr Fatialofa is collecting the shoeboxes to be delivered to Manono Island in Samoa in December.

"I had no hesitation in being part of it – it’s a great idea," he says.

Mangere-based freight company Agility has offered a 40-foot container and will deliver it for free to Samoa before Christmas, he says.

"It’s no business gig - it’s about helping the kids."

Mr Fatialofa’s village was hit by the tsunami and despite his family taking refuge on a hill close by two young children were still swept away.

"This is the worst disaster I have ever come across and that the Samoans have experienced," he says.

"We know in the back of our minds that many kids in Samoa probably are sitting in a tent at the moment.

"Christmas is coming for everyone so if you have some toys from last year that will make a little boy or girl in Samoa happy, please donate them."

Mr Fatialofa’s urging people to donate any-
thing from one shoebox to 20.

"Whatever people can afford. I don’t want people giving too much because
we all have our own families here but if you have something you can give it would be greatly appreciated."

And he’s got a little tip for a bit of Christmas cheer.

"Put a message in there for whoever is accepting the gift and put a smile on a kid’s face."

The collection is open from 10am to 4pm today, tomorrow and Sunday at the Pacific Business Trust, 733 Great South Rd, Otahuhu.

For information call 027-344-7685.

- © Fairfax NZ News