New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has defended the government’s financial settlement following the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui, while concerns from the Sāmoan community suggest that the compensation may be insufficient. This week, the New Zealand government confirmed a payment of NZ$6 million (SAT$10 million) to Sāmoa, aimed at addressing the aftermath of the incident that occurred last October.
According to Luxon, the Sāmoan government was invited to propose an appropriate financial compensation amount. He stated that the decision on how the funds will be distributed among the affected local communities rests with Sāmoa. However, Sāmoan advocate Ulugia Sua Jay Ah Fook Schuster expressed that the compensation is disappointing, noting it as “on the lower side” in light of the disaster’s impact. He suggested that a larger sum would be necessary to adequately ensure safety and support recovery efforts.
Schuster emphasized ongoing safety concerns, particularly regarding divers who are currently accessing the wreck site, which remains unsecured. He voiced confusion among the local community about the process and progress related to the disaster response and cleanup, stating it took several months for any interventions to occur after the sinking.
The HMNZS Manawanui sank off the Safata District coastline, and while all 75 crew members and passengers were safely evacuated, the incident has left a lasting impact on local businesses, particularly those dependent on tourism. One local operator, Netina Malae, described the downturn experienced by her business, stating that inquiries and bookings have diminished significantly due to fears of ocean pollution.
Peluaga Visesio Patea, the village chief of Tafitoala—one of the communities directly affected—highlighted the site of the wreck as crucial for local fishing, emphasizing its environmental importance. Schuster further noted the need for the incident to spark changes in how environmental disasters are managed in Sāmoa and the broader region.
Despite criticisms, Luxon acknowledged New Zealand’s accountability in addressing the situation and aimed the focus on a collaborative effort for recovery. This includes hopes that the financial assistance will channel into restoring the local marine ecosystem, which serves as a vital livelihood for the community.
A comprehensive Court of Inquiry into the causes of the sinking revealed shortcomings in crew training and readiness, raising questions about the operational fitness of the ship, which was conducting hydrographic surveys at the time.
Recent developments suggest the New Zealand Defence Force is wrapping up its investigation and is working on implementing any necessary recommendations. Community leaders are hoping for positive outcomes and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The potential transformation of the wreck site into a safeguarded marine reserve could also present new eco-tourism opportunities, turning a tragic event into a means of growth for the community.