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Title:	Canoe Before the Wind, A
Authors:	Lafaele, Vitale
Genre:	Non Fiction: New Zealand
Pages:	296
Year:	2023
Language:	English
Description:	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.
Categories:	Non-fiction NZ, Non-fiction, Biography, Culture/Ethnic/Racial, Samoa, 2025 Titles

Reviews

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By: MORRI 001		2026-03-01 11:41:27

Everybody found Vitaele's story interesting, particularly his early life in New Zealand, and the political climate of the times. His background in the SAS and police was told candidly. He has had an extraordinary life and showed resilience in adversity.

By: NEWP 013		2025-11-10 12:02:44

The group were interested in the story - the courage, bravery, perseverance, and the vivid recollections of an inner city Auckland now long gone. A story worth telling, and an insight into Samoan culture.

By: WELL 060		2025-10-30 10:28:57

We all enjoyed this book and learned a lot about the difficulties of being a Samoan immigrant. Vitale is a very impressive person.

By: LOWER 006		2025-07-09 14:09:40

A good deal of admiration for the achievements, pre and post stroke, but perhaps too much self-credit in the latter half? And much at the cost of family life.

By: BLENH 007		2025-06-23 12:22:03

We had a very robust and interesting discussion. Few felt that the actual writing was good, but his story warranted telling. Several members had heard him speak last year at the book festival, and had varying reactions to his address there. Some felt there were anomalies in his story, and one thought he was 'full of himself'! It's a long time since we've had differing views on a book. A most enjoyable discussion.

By: AUCK 476		2025-06-04 13:21:50

An interesting read for a Palagi group - events we have experienced in our lifetimes, seen through another lens.

By: AUCK 224		2025-05-27 11:21:31

An inspirational story of perseverance against prejudice and social expectation.

By: WHANGA 005		2025-05-12 12:51:32

We decided that the Pasifika style of leadership and management is a quality we liked, as per the the three different styles stated, with his greatest achievements both visible, and invisible, in his motivating of others. We decided we would like to meet and hear him speak. A great advocate for the Samoan people.

By: AUCK 216		2025-05-05 15:01:24

We really enjoyed this book. Initially found the style a little dry, but what an incredible man with a remarkable life and story!

By: AUCK 134		2025-04-08 12:02:56

Good book for discussion. Although very linear in style ( and plainly written), important themes came through clearly, along with extraordinary character traits in its central character. A story which could stay with the reader.

By: WELL 198		2025-02-20 09:59:13

A few in the group did not finish the book, but overall we felt it was a good read.