Tamaiti Satalo: A New Samoan-Language Animation Celebrating Culture and Identity

Just in time for Le Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa (Samoan Language Week), a vibrant animated series, Tamaiti Satalo, is set to premiere on Thursday, 5 June on pmn.co.nz. This beautiful Samoan-language reimagining of the wildly popular Māori animation Tākaro Tribe promises to be a powerful educational and cultural tool for Pacific children across Aotearoa and beyond.

A proud partnership between Pacific Media Network and acclaimed Māori production company Cinco Cine, with Nicole Hoey at the helm, and supported by Ghost House Productions - Tamaiti Satalo delivers more than just entertainment, it provides an inspiring and engaging platform for nurturing the Samoan language.

The new show features a star-studded all-Samoan voice cast - including our very own Samoan country singer, The Western Guide, star of Coconet TV’s First Place, Dejealous Palota-Kopa, beloved Samoan Singer and Radio announcer Lesā Lani Alo, Lauie Tofa easily recognised as the ASB Guy and Samoan Songstress Nyssa Collins.

At the forefront of this project is proud Samoan producer Aumua Crystal Vaega, whose passion for Pacific language and storytelling shines through in every animated moment.

Reflecting on the importance of the language in her life, she shares - “The Samoan language has been my best friend—the part of my identity that remained with me at all times, especially when others doubted my ‘Samoan-ness’. That’s why I am a huge advocate for Pacific language and culture in my work, my career, and my personal life.”

This initial release includes three episodes in the Samoan language, with plans already underway to expand the series into Tongan and Cook Islands Māori episodes in the near future, making Takaro Tribe a truly pan-Pacific treasure.

Celebrate Samoan Language Week with the joy, rhythm, and cultural pride of Tamaiti Satalo. Watch the premiere episodes from Thursday, 5 June exclusively on pmn.co.nz.

ENDS

Media Contact:

Maegan ClarkeHead of Social Content maegan@cincocine.co.nz 021 037 7948