Samoans in New Zealand are still anxiously waiting to hear how their loved ones fared after Cyclone Evan hit.

The first Kiwis to return from cyclone-ravaged Samoa have told of their narrow escapes from the devastation.

The category three tropical cyclone currently lashing Samoa could develop into a category five monster by the time it reaches Fiji.

We track deadly Cyclone Evan as he leaves Samoa and aims to take a massive and direct hit to Fiji as monster category 4 tropical storm. We have the latest maps, forecasts and tracking for this storm, which some models show will drift close to NZ in the days before Christmas.

Tropical Cyclone Evan is making its presence felt as it sweeps through the Pacific Islands, hitting Samoa and Fiji with winds of up to 185km/h, leaving a trail of debris behind it.

A number of residents near Apia have evacuated their open fales to seek safety in evacuation sites and enclosed homes, as Cyclone Evans hits.

A tropical cyclone is expected to hit Samoa at midday today with wind speeds predicted to reach over 80km/h.

The uncle of a boy shot dead in Samoa has spoken of the family's grief as arrangements are made for the bubbly 5-year-old's funeral.

The mother of a 5-year-old shot dead in Samoa is struggling to believe her son has died, shot at the hands of his 8-year-old cousin.

A 5-year-old New Zealand boy has been shot dead while fighting over a gun with his cousin in Samoa.

Sinalei Resort is better than ever after being rebuilt, says Chloe Johnson.

A mystery infection killed a Hamilton school teacher within days of falling ill while on holiday in Samoa.

The island of Savai'i is home to fewer than 44,000 people and has so far escaped commercial development, making it an ideal place to sample traditional Samoan culture and to see fascinating natural landmarks such as the Alofa'aga Taga blowholes.

Chloe Johnson savours the local craft, music and natural wonders of Savai'i Island.

Despite it being the rainy season, Wynne Gray got the most out his beachfront escape.

Dan Ahwa meets a village celebrity who is keeping an ancient Samoan art alive.