June 1Samoa (called Western Samoa until 1997) gained independence from New Zealand on January 1, 1962. Because the rainy season in Samoa comes in January, however, celebrations are held in June on the first day of the month. CONTACTS: Permanent Mission of Samoa to the UN 800 Second Ave., Ste. 400 J New York, NY 10017 212-599-6196; fax: 212-599-0797 SOURCES: NatlHolWrld-1968, p. 9 (c)