One Year On: New Zealand Pays Reparations After Navy Ship Sinks Off Samoa
Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed the payment in a public statement, emphasizing that New Zealand acted promptly and transparently in response to Samoa’s request.
- Country:
- New Zealand
Exactly one year after the Royal New Zealand Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui tragically sank off the southern coast of Samoa, the New Zealand Government has made a formal reparatory payment of 10 million Samoan Tala (approximately NZD 6 million) to the Government of Samoa. The payment comes in response to a request by Samoa and represents an act of diplomatic goodwill and accountability following the maritime incident.
The ship sank off the Safata District coastline on the island of Upolu in October last year. All 75 people on board — including both crew and passengers — survived the incident, which avoided immediate loss of life but caused significant disruption and concern in surrounding coastal communities.
New Zealand’s Statement: Doing the Right Thing
Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed the payment in a public statement, emphasizing that New Zealand acted promptly and transparently in response to Samoa’s request.
“We have responded to the Government of Samoa’s request in full and with good faith. We have always said we will do the right thing,” Mr Peters said.
He acknowledged the wider implications of the incident for Samoan communities, noting the damage to livelihoods, marine ecosystems, and local operations.
“We recognise the impact the sinking has had on local communities and acknowledge the disruption it caused.”
Ongoing Cooperation on Environmental and Strategic Fronts
Minister Peters also highlighted New Zealand’s ongoing partnership with Samoa to address both the environmental aftermath and future plans concerning the sunken vessel. The wreckage of HMNZS Manawanui remains off the coast, prompting concerns over possible environmental impacts such as oil leaks or disruption to coral ecosystems.
“Working with the Government of Samoa, our focus continues to be on minimising any possible environmental impacts and supporting the response. These are our absolute priorities,” he said.
The governments are now considering options for the ship’s future — whether it will be salvaged, repurposed, or formally decommissioned at the site. Both countries have emphasized the need for mutual decision-making and community consultation throughout this process.
Inquiry Completed, Disciplinary Actions Pending
In the aftermath of the incident, a comprehensive Court of Inquiry was launched by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to determine the causes and contributing factors that led to the sinking. The inquiry has now been concluded, and NZDF has begun implementing several of its recommendations to improve naval safety, crew training, and operational protocols.
However, the matter may not yet be closed. While the technical investigation is nearly complete, the NZDF has stated that any disciplinary proceedings that may arise are still pending.
“The investigation is reaching its closing stages,” NZDF advised, adding that appropriate action will follow based on the final report’s findings.
Background: HMNZS Manawanui’s Sinking
HMNZS Manawanui was a diving and hydrographic support vessel commissioned to support naval operations including marine surveys, underwater repair, and search-and-rescue tasks. The vessel ran aground in rough seas near Safata, reportedly after a navigational error during a joint operation between New Zealand and Samoan personnel.
The event triggered a swift multinational rescue effort, ultimately ensuring the safety of all those on board. However, the environmental and symbolic consequences — a foreign navy vessel sinking in Samoan waters — had broader diplomatic and ecological implications.
A Model of Accountability in Pacific Relations
New Zealand’s payment and ongoing collaboration with Samoa underscore its commitment to responsible regional leadership in the Pacific. By taking ownership of the incident and responding decisively to Samoa’s concerns, the Ardern government — and now its successor under Winston Peters — have sought to maintain trust and uphold the shared values of partnership and mutual respect among Pacific neighbours.
As both nations work toward a long-term resolution, the HMNZS Manawanui saga serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of naval operations — and the importance of clear protocols, environmental safeguards, and bilateral trust in addressing them.
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