Star Tutaia ‘Returns to Paradise’

12 January 2016, 12:00AM

Silver Ferns Netball Star Maria Tutaia has been in Samoa for an exclusive magazine photo shoot. While here, she had time to visit Return to Paradise Resort, the stunning resort on the South Coast beach of the same name that is owned by Maria’s extended family.

Maria was invited to perform the special Taualuga cultural dance at the Resort’s Fiafia night. 

The culture group is made of cousins, nephews and nieces from her extended family.

The last time Maria performed the Taualuga was with the All Blacks at Eden Park in 2010 to raise funds for Samoan tetraplegic rugby injury Ben Leia. 

“We are so proud of Maria and her sporting achievements so it was just wonderful to have her back with us,” said Ramona Su’a Pale, Maria’s aunty and Director of the Resort.

“Maria danced standing on the backs of the boys, and then to show she is still in shape, Maria got down on the ground with them and concluded her dance with a series of push-ups. Not traditional, but brought the house down just the same.”

“I am so proud of my Aunty Ramona and our family for creating this beautiful resort,” says Tutaia. “This is my first visit since it was opened and I am just blown away by how beautiful this is. This is my family and now that I have experienced the Resort, I want to bring everyone I know here. I just can’t wait to come back.”

12 January 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>