Auckland [New Zealand], October 6: New Zealand will pay $3.6 million in compensation to Samoa after a New Zealand navy ship sank off the coast of Samoa in 2024, affecting the environment and livelihoods of local people.
The Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui, which specializes in hydrographic and diving operations, ran aground near the southern coast of Upolu Island in Samoa in October 2024 while surveying a coral reef.
The 75-man crew were rescued but the ship was abandoned and later sank. An investigation found that the ship sank due to human error.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters issued a statement on October 6 saying the government will pay 10 million Samoan tala (3.6 million USD) in compensation at the request of the Samoan government , according to AP.
According to the Samoa Observer , the ship damaged more than 50,000 square meters of coral . More than 200,000 liters of diesel fuel leaked from the ship, causing an environmental disaster, leading to a fishing ban that lasted more than 5 months in the area. The lives of many surrounding villages were affected.
"We recognise the impact the sinking has had on local communities and acknowledge the disruption it has caused," Mr Peters said.
The Samoan government has not commented on New Zealand's compensation decision.
The Manawanui remains on the reef today, but the salvage team has removed all fuel, pollutants, equipment and weapons.
Mr Peters said New Zealand would continue to work with Samoa regarding the ship. "Our focus is on mitigating the potential environmental impact and assisting in the response. That is our priority," the New Zealand foreign minister said.
The investigation report found that the crew did not realize the ship was on autopilot and assumed there was some other problem as the ship entered the reef. The report highlighted a lack of training, qualifications and experience among the crew. New Zealand said it had not decided on disciplinary action against those responsible.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
