New Zealand to pay Samoans for navy damage

SAMOANS affected by the sinking of the New Zealand navy ship, HMNZS Manawanui will be individually compensated from a $USD3.6 million payout.

Compensation from the New Zealand government will also be distributed to affected businesses.

Villages and businesses were affected when the ship sank and contaminated the area of Safata in October 2024.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt told Samoan media that a Cabinet sub-committee had approved the payment method.

But Schmidt has instructed the committee to have a final consultation with the villages affected before making its final decision and recommendation.

He said that the distribution must be fair and reflect the impact on each individual and business.

Villages in Siumu, Safata 1 and Safata 2 districts were the worst affected through the loss of food sources, income through fishery and marine resources. Surfing and marines tourism businesses bore the brunt of the impact.

It is understood that some villagers approached the government and sought permission to distribute the funds. Schmidt said funds would be distributed by the government.