Learn Pacific and Māori Languages with Asalei
Asalei is the first language learning app for Samoan, Tongan, Cook Islands Māori, Niuean, Fijian, and Te Reo Māori.
Start free and join thousands of learners across New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.
About Asalei
Asalei is a language learning app that makes it easy to learn Indigenous languages.
Instead of abstract grammar rules, learners practice with interactive challenges that teach useful phrases right away.
Today, Asalei serves learners across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. The product runs on the web now, with iOS and Android in active development.
Interactive, Game-Based Challenges
Dive into bite-sized, interactive challenges that make learning Māori and Pacific phrases feel like play.
Real-Time Progress Tracking
Stay motivated with streaks, leaderboards, and achievements that celebrate every milestone on your language journey.
Learn Anytime, Anywhere
Access lessons on web (mobile app coming soon) so you can practice Pacific languages whenever and wherever.
Join a Growing Community
learners are already on their
language journey with Asalei.
Our Mission
Asalei’s mission is to make Pacific and Māori languages accessible, fun, and practical to learn while helping people reconnect with their culture and identity through everyday language use.
We focus on useful phrases first, not abstract grammar, so learners can start speaking with confidence from day one.
As the first app dedicated to teaching Samoan, Tongan, Cook Islands Māori, Niuean, Fijian, and Te Reo Māori all in one place, Asalei combines culturally respectful content with interactive, game-based challenges.
Whether you’re a beginner or a heritage speaker, Asalei is built to fit busy lives and keep language learning part of your daily routine.
Team & Founder
Cruise Tuakura — Founder & CEO
Cruise is a Mechanical Engineer by trade who transitioned into the coding world to build his startup, Asalei — named after his grandmother — to help Indigenous people learn and use their languages every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Asalei free?
Yes—getting started is free. Optional in-app purchases and subscriptions support more practice and features.
Which languages can I learn?
Samoan, Tongan, Cook Islands Māori, Niuean, Fijian, and Te Reo Māori—with more planned.
Is there a mobile app?
The web app is live now. iOS and Android are in active development.
Who is Asalei for?
Beginners, heritage speakers, and anyone who wants a practical, culturally respectful way to learn Pacific and Māori languages.