First time Kiwi visitor, Kirk Ah Sam, says Samoa's way of life has taught him something significant - not to take life for granted. 

"It’s not so much of a culture shock as I spent quite a bit of time in Fiji, but it’s just a different way of life," he told Dear Tourist.

"We come from a place where we have everything and we take it for granted and the local people over here have to work so hard just to get ahead, so it sort of shows you how lucky you are." 

The 38-year-old said he is Fijian and spent time there quite a lot over the years. But he also seemed keen to find out any possibilities of having relations in Samoa as well.

"I think it has been fantastic, my father’s Fijian so we usually spend all the time in Fiji and it's similar but different. 

"But the people here are so friendly we’ve been very welcomed and I’d certainly bring people back.

"Yeah, I asked my dad if we had relations here and he said he’s pretty sure we’re not related to the Ah Sam’s in Samoa. You never know," he laughed.

Kirk traveled to Samoa for a friend's wedding at Saletoga Sands Resort at Matatufu, where he also stayed for his one-week trip.

"I know the local people work really really hard, it’s amazing to see how many hours a day the staff are working but it’s certainly been a fantastic trip."

Originally, Kirk is from the west coast of the south island of New Zealand but later migrated to Canada for work where he now manages a glazing company.

"I’m actually from Canada now but for sure bring my kids back here. My wife had to stay in Canada and my kids are with both sets of grandparents in New Zealand  but I would certainly like to bring them back. 

"I have been living there for 11 years for work and it’s been a good opportunity for me to get ahead but eventually we’d like to move a little closer to home and see what the future brings," he said.

Kirk said he has had a fantastic time in Samoa, and is sure to be back to see and experience more of Samoa's communal setting.

"I have had a great time, the only thing I would change is the weather. We really haven’t had the beautiful blue skies but we still had a good time.

"I tell you what, that Tosua Ocean Trench, that was one of the most beautiful places I had ever seen. I could’ve stayed there all day, it was so relaxing, it was amazing.

"When I come back, I would like to get out into the village more and see what real village life is like but it’s an eye opener; it’s a different life out here for sure," he said.