PM Luxon to Visit Samoa and Tonga to Strengthen Pacific Partnerships

The visit, which begins on Sunday 15 March, will focus on strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding economic cooperation, and deepening people-to-people connections between the nations.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will travel to Samoa and Tonga this weekend in a visit aimed at reinforcing New Zealand’s close relationship with two of its most important Pacific partners.

The visit, which begins on Sunday 15 March, will focus on strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding economic cooperation, and deepening people-to-people connections between the nations.

Strengthening Family-Like Pacific Relationships

Prime Minister Luxon highlighted the deep cultural and social connections between New Zealand and the two Pacific nations, noting the strong presence of Samoan and Tongan communities within New Zealand.

“Both countries are integral to who we are as a nation. With more than 300,000 Samoan and Tongan New Zealanders, the family connection is woven into the fabric of our society,” Luxon said.

The Prime Minister described Samoa and Tonga as key members of New Zealand’s Pacific family, with longstanding partnerships spanning diplomacy, trade, culture, and development cooperation.

First Comprehensive Engagement with New Governments

The trip will mark New Zealand’s first comprehensive engagement with the newly formed governments in Samoa and Tonga.

During the visit, Luxon is scheduled to meet with the Prime Ministers and Cabinet members in both capitals, discussing priorities for cooperation across areas such as economic development, regional security, and social wellbeing.

“Through our longstanding ties, we have built enormous trust between our nations,” Luxon said.

“I’m looking forward to hearing my new colleagues’ points of view, and then agreeing how we can work together to build communities that are more prosperous and safer from threats like drugs.”

Promoting Economic, Cultural and Community Connections

The visit will also highlight the strong cultural and economic links between New Zealand and the Pacific region.

Luxon will be accompanied by senior business leaders and community representatives, reflecting the government’s aim to strengthen trade, investment, and cultural collaboration with Pacific nations.

The delegation will be led by Savae Sir Michael Jones and Rachel Afeaki, both prominent figures in New Zealand’s Pacific community.

According to the Prime Minister, the trip will celebrate the diverse connections between the countries across sport, music, and business.

Delegation of Ministers and MPs

Several government ministers and Members of Parliament will accompany the Prime Minister during the trip.

The delegation includes:

• Dr Shane Reti, Minister for Pacific Peoples

• Mark Mitchell, Police Minister (joining in Samoa)

• Tim van de Molen, Member of Parliament

• Jenny Salesa, Member of Parliament

• Teanau Tuiono, Member of Parliament

The presence of ministers and MPs from different political backgrounds reflects the importance New Zealand places on maintaining strong Pacific relationships.

Travel Schedule

The official delegation will depart Auckland on Sunday, 15 March, and return to New Zealand on Wednesday, 18 March.

The government says the visit aims to further strengthen partnerships with Samoa and Tonga while reinforcing New Zealand’s long-term commitment to supporting stability, prosperity, and cooperation across the Pacific region.