Friendship Park Opens, Draws Community

Apia’s newest attraction and waterfront community space, the Friendship Park at Matagialalua was officially opened by the Honourable Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa on Friday 26th August.

The Friendship Park according to Honourable Fiame is a key objective of the Apia Waterfront Plan to enhance the remaining public spaces along the Apia coastal waterfront for community enjoyment and to offer a diversity of commercial opportunities. The goal has been to create a safe environment and modern space that connects people and places which will allow locals and tourists to relax in natural surroundings and enjoy leisure and recreation in a safe, culturally friendly and favourable atmosphere.

Since its opening, the Park has attracted members of the community both young and old with many sharing their experiences widely on social media.

Funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China in partnership with the Municipality of Huizhou City of Guangdong Province, the Park was officially handed-over at the opening ceremony to Government by HE Chao Xiaoliang, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Samoa.

The Park is an important part of the Apia Waterfront development plan which aims to reflect a unique Samoan experience, create an inclusive, safe and clean waterfront, enhance public domain for community use, support opportunities for local business initiatives and connect people to the sea.

The opening of the Friendship Park coincides with the commemorative celebrations marking Samoa’s 60th Independence anniversary and will be the venue for many events taking place during 4th – 10th September.

The main elements of the Friendship Park design include:

• Lawn Amphitheatre that provides a main stage with surrounding tiered-seating and a ‘malae’ or arena.  Public shows and entertainment will be the focus of this element of the Park.
• Children’s Playground area providing a dedicated safe space for children to enjoy play-equipment and space for bike riding and roller-skating.
• Mangrove Tidal Garden and Timber Boardwalk remoulded from the then existing pond.
• Sports Courts area with two multi-sports courts, for the public to use for training and fun activities.
• Fales (3) offering space for small cafeterias, a shop and bathroom amenities; and

The Park will be managed by Samoa Tourism Authority.