Canoe Before the Wind, A

Lafaele, Vitale

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When the Lafaele family arrived in Auckland from Samoa in the 1960s, it was the era of the dawn raids, with no welcome mat in sight. There was much to endure, and endure they did, with Vitale, the eldest son, going on to be not only one of the few civilians to be selected for the SAS, but to become one of New Zealand’s top-ranking policemen.

Engaging and easy to read, this is the inspiring memoir of a humble, determined man, of the immigrant experience and of courage and fortitude aplenty.

Comments from BDS Reviewers

"An uplifting memoir of how a young Samoan immigrant with a strong work ethnic and the will to succeed overcomes life's obstacles."

"Easy to read and full of insight into the immigrant experience in New Zealand."

"Really interesting to hear of both his and his family's experiences."

"I found him to be an incredibly motivated and driven man. Also humble and caring."

"I think folks moving from island nations to NZ must be positive to survive. Vitale is a great role model."

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