History

The Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS) in New Zealand was established during a time when many Samoan families were migrating to New Zealand in search of better opportunities. These families were determined to keep their faith and cultural identity intact by worshipping in Samoan and maintaining their cultural traditions.

On 29 December 1962, sixteen Samoans gathered at 169 Nelson Street, Ponsonby, Auckland, to officially establish the first EFKS church in New Zealand. Their goal was to create a place of worship for the Samoan community in New Zealand that would also remain connected to the broader EFKS mission in Samoa. This church, now known as EFKS Grey Lynn, became a key center for religious and cultural life for Samoans in Auckland.

The church’s initial leadership team included Afioga Fuimaono Konesane E P Fuimaono as Chairperson, Sooalo Mafola Loli Timaloa as Secretary, and Faititilipatasi Fuimaono as Treasurer. On 30 December 1962, Pastor Ekepati Laeilua led the first worship service at Druids Hall in Auckland. As the EFKS Grey Lynn congregation grew, the church became a central gathering place for Samoans in Auckland.

On 9 November 1963, EFKS Grey Lynn was officially consecrated at its new location at 56 Sussex Street, Auckland. Reverend Siaosi Ieriko and his wife, Fuafuaga Ieriko, were appointed on 14 December 1963, beginning nearly three decades of leadership from 1963 to 1991. Their leadership was critical to the growth and stability of the church, making EFKS Grey Lynn a key spiritual and cultural centre for Samoans in Auckland.

In 1992, Reverend Ioritana Tanielu and his wife, Lonise Tanielu, were appointed to lead the church. Their tenure lasted until 2011, during which time the church continued to thrive, maintaining its strong presence within the Samoan community. In 2012, Reverend Dr. Peniamina Leota and his wife, Sinatala Leota, were appointed, taking the church into its 50th anniversary and continuing its legacy through the 60th anniversary in 2022.