The government of New Zealand has agreed to pay Samoa 10 million Samoan tala (approximately US$3.51 million) in compensation for the sinking of the Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui off the coast of Upolu Island in October 2024.
The specialized diving and hydrographic support ship of the Royal New Zealand Navy ran aground during a reef survey off Samoa’s southern coast. The crew evacuated, after which the vessel capsized and sank. An initial investigation concluded that the grounding was caused by a series of human errors.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that the compensation was made following an official request from the Samoan government.
“We understand the impact this incident has had on local communities, and we acknowledge the damage it has caused,”Peters said.
The Manawanui remains on the reef, but salvage crews have already removed diesel fuel, oil, equipment, weapons, ammunition, and cargo containers to minimize environmental risks.
Peters emphasized that New Zealand continues to work with Samoa on decisions concerning the vessel’s future.
“Together with the Samoan government, we remain focused on minimizing any potential environmental impact and supporting response measures. These are our absolute priorities,” he added.
