Aiga-i-le-Tai, Administrative district in western Samoa.
Aiga-i-le-Tai is an administrative district in western Samoa that includes Manono and Apolima islands plus a section of Upolu's western coast. The district connects several islands and coastal areas, serving as an important link between Samoa's main islands.
Archaeological digs at Mulifanua in 1973 uncovered Lapita pottery fragments and tools dating back about 3,000 years, showing early Polynesian settlement in the area. These findings established the region as a key location in early Pacific history.
The district name comes from the Samoan language and means 'family by the sea', reflecting how local communities have shaped their identity through their relationship with the ocean. This connection remains visible in how people live and work along the islands and coast.
The Mulifanua ferry terminal runs daily services between Upolu and Savai'i islands and serves as the main transportation hub for the region. Visitors should be aware of tide levels and weather patterns, as these can affect boat travel.
Mulifanua is the only known site in Samoa where decorated Lapita pottery was discovered, making it especially valuable for understanding early Pacific cultures. The decorated sherds found here set this location apart from other archaeological sites in the region.
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