New Zealand Pays Samoa $6M After Naval Shipwreck
New Zealand has paid Samoa 10 million Samoan Tala (about NZD 6 million or £2.6 million) after a naval ship crashed into a reef and sank last year.
New Zealand Compensates Samoa After Naval Ship Sinks
The vessel, HMNZS Manawanui, caught fire before sinking in Samoan waters. It was New Zealand’s first naval loss at sea since World War Two. Officials said the ship was surveying the seabed when it ran aground.
Environmental Damage and Apology
After the ship sank, oil began leaking into the ocean. Reports said sea turtles died, and oil slicks appeared on nearby beaches, sparking environmental concern in Samoa.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed that the payment was made at Samoa’s request. He added that the government wanted to maintain strong ties with its Pacific neighbor while addressing the damage caused.
“The payment reflects our commitment to accountability and regional cooperation,” Peters said.
The Manawanui was one of nine vessels in New Zealand’s small naval fleet. It had been conducting a survey of an unmapped section of the sea floor when the incident occurred.
Environmental experts say the payment may help fund cleanup operations and protect Samoa’s fragile marine ecosystem. However, they warn that the ecological impact could last for years.
As a result, both nations have agreed to strengthen maritime safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
