He has helped on several development projects in the Pacific Islands, including leading a two-year project to implement a water supply and health project in Falelima in Samoa, and improving emergency facilities on the island.
He has provided counsel to Pacific families, police, the Ministries of Pacific Affairs and Justice, and was part of the Law Association for Asia and the South Pacific delegation in 1993 that consulted with Pacific Governments on Human Rights Commission issues.
He has been appointed to several high-profile roles in the New Zealand Methodist Church including vice-president, secretary and property convenor of the Samoan Synod branch.
Originally from Samoa, Mr Tupu moved to New Zealand as a 16-year-old and has lived in Wellington for 53 years, recently moving to Martinborough.
He has worked with people from all over the Pacific, helping with interpretation in court cases as well as setting up education and English courses.
He has also worked as an investigator in the Ombudsman's office and is a marriage celebrant and Justice of the Peace.
As well as continuing his work as a JP from his office in Martinborough, he hopes to connect with the Pacific community in Wairarapa, Mr Tupu said.
Although a recent addition to Wairarapa, he is already in love with his new home, he said.
