The New Zealand Government announced on Monday that it would pay to the Samoan Government 10 million Samoa Tala ($3.51million) in response to the sinking of an Royal New Zealand Navy ship off the coasts of Samoa, 2024.

Manawanui ran aground in October 2024 while conducting a survey of the reefs near the southern coasts of Upolu. The crew abandoned the vessel, which capsized and then sank. All 75 members of the crew survived. Initial investigation into the grounding revealed that it was caused by human error.

Winston Peters, New Zealand's foreign minister, said that the payment was made in response to a request by the Government of Samoa.

Peters stated, "We acknowledge the impact of the sinking on local communities as well as the disruption caused by it."

Manawanui is still on the reef, but the salvors have removed the diesel fuel and other pollutants, along with the equipment, weapons, ammunition, and shipping containers.

Peters said New Zealand and Samoa continue to work together on the decisions surrounding the ship's future.

Our focus, in collaboration with the Government of Samoa continues to be minimising environmental impacts and supporting response. Peters stated that these are the top priorities.

(source: Reuters)