Celebrating Success: 97% Quit Rate Marks Major Milestone for South Auckland

Six Samoan Methodist churches achieved an extraordinary 97% quit rate among their 222 smokers - a remarkable achievement celebrated at The Fono's World Smokefree Day celebration on 31 May at Manukau Samoan Methodist Church Hall. 

This milestone event marked the official launch of The Fono's Smokefree services in South Auckland while honouring this community-driven health transformation. The churches took centre stage, delivering powerful performances focused on their smokefree journey. Each presentation was carefully prepared and deeply heartfelt, moving everyone in attendance and demonstrating these communities' genuine commitment to healthier living. 

(L-R) Janet Masoe-Hundal, Manager Public Health of The Fono; Rev. Letalie Fomai, Minister of Onehunga Samoan Methodist Church; Rev. Uili Soloa, Minister of Weymouth Samoan Methodist Church; Rev. Farani Va'a, Minister of Drury Samoan Methodist Church; Rev. Patrick Fenika, Minister of Papakura Samoan Methodist Church; Rev. Gatai Masau, Minister of Manukau Samoan Methodist Church; Afioga Afemata Palusalue Fa’apo II, Consulate General of Samoa in Auckland; Hon Casey Costello, Associate Minister of Health; Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM, CEO of The Fono Trust; Maninoa Funaki; Rebecca Ruwhiu-Collins, Pou Tātaki Pae Ora Manager - Addictions, Hauora Māori Services - Public and Population Health; Tuifa'asisina Maria Lafaele, Head of Office of the National Director, Pacific Health; Jane McEntee, Acting Regional Director for Northern for National Public Health Services.

The day's significance was elevated by distinguished guests including Associate Minister of Health Hon. Casey Costello, Hon. Afemata Palusalue Fa'apo II (Consulate General of Samoa in Auckland), and The Fono's CEO Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM, who all spoke to recognise this community driven health achievement. 

"This event represents exactly what we hoped to achieve with our Smokefree service," said one team member. "Working with communities, meeting people where they are, and supporting them through their journey - seeing these churches achieve a 97% quit rate shows what's possible when we work together." 

The Fono's Smokefree service provides free, flexible support for anyone aged 18 and over in the Auckland region, based on the belief quitting smoking shouldn't be a solo journey. The 6-8 week programme offers personalised quit plans, nicotine replacement therapy, and ongoing support from culturally competent Quit Coaches who speak multiple languages and meet clients wherever they feel most comfortable. 

The success of these six churches proves that real change is possible when people work together. For those ready to quit, The Fono's expanded Smokefree services are there for anyone in South Auckland ready to take the next step.