Talofa lava, everyone.
My name is Mose, the face behind Panipopo.
This little business was born from three heartfelt reasons:
– Panipopo is my favourite Samoan dessert.
– It reminds me of home — our beautiful Samoa.
– And most importantly, it’s a way to give back to the community I love.
Panipopo reminds me of Christmas and New Year’s, birthdays and funerals — those times when family comes together for a cup of tea. The kitchen is crowded, stories are flowing, and laughter fills the air. Breaking open that golden bun to find soft dough swimming in sweet coconut sauce feels like a hug from home, every single time.
That same warmth and sense of togetherness is what I try to carry into everything I do outside the kitchen, too. Giving back has always been part of my journey — it’s who I am.
Outside of my full time job and keeping an active lifestyle, I’m currently mentoring a De La Salle graduate who’s now in his first year of university. This is through the First Foundation programme, which supports academically talented and financially disadvantaged students across New Zealand. I’ve committed four years to help him transition from college to university, and then from university to professional life. This is the second year of that four-year commitment. We meet every month at a café for breakfast — something I’m proud to personally fund.
Earlier this year, I competed in the Auckland Hyrox and raised $415 for the Middlemore Foundation, helping provide warm pyjamas and winter essentials for children who need them most in South Auckland.
This November, I completed the Auckland Half Marathon and fundraised $1,174 for Breast Cancer Cure, surpassing my $500 goal. This small business, Panipopo also donated $285 of its first sales to the cause as well. These funds go toward vital research to help find a cure for breast cancer.
Back in 2023, I took on the challenge of cycling 100km every day for 30 days, raising $1,100 for Ronald McDonald House — helping give Kiwi families a safe, comforting place to rest after long days on the ward.
I love my community. I love my people. And I believe I’ve been called to do more — to reach as many as I can who need a helping hand. That’s one of the reasons Panipopo exists.
My intention is to donate a portion of Panipopo sales to charities I support within my community, highlighting a different cause each season so your purchase directly supports those who need it most.
My next challenge and charity for 2026 will be announced soon — and I see this business playing a big part in it.
Every bun you bake helps someone else.
Come share a taste of Samoa — and help us bake a little more good into the world.
Much love,
Mose
