‘Our relationship with Sāmoa is strong’

New Zealand’s evolving relationship with its Pacific whānau is very strong and connected through culture, history, politics, people, language, and shared interests, Health and Pacific Minister Dr Shane Reti says.

He says Kiwis share personal ties, including family connections, and the links forged through education, business, travel, and friendship with their Pacific aiga.

Speaking on Pacific Mornings, Reti also addressed the recent environmental incident involving the HMNZS Manawanui in Sāmoa.

“The Treaty of Friendship is a strong treaty between us and Sāmoa… and I would say our relationship with Sāmoa is strong.”

The Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui sank after catching fire and running aground near Upolu, Samoa earlier this month. Photo/Profile Boats

Reti highlighted the Government's focus on mitigating environmental harm and working alongside Sāmoan counterparts to protect the region.

He denied that New Zealand is a bad neighbour and ally to the island nation.

“Our prime goal here now is to protect the environment and be focused on doing everything we can to do that in collaboration with our colleagues and friends in Sāmoa.”

Reflecting on the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), held for the first time in the Pacific, Reti acknowledged the value of international gatherings, given the unique challenges facing the region.

“There are many areas of international tension in the world. And to be able to discuss this with our Commonwealth partners… and the long history of trust that we have with our Commonwealth partners… is a good thing,”

Dr Reti met with the Ulu-o-Tokelau earlier this year in Wellington. Photo/Dr Shane Reti Facebook

When asked about the possibility of New Zealand becoming a republic, he admitted his “traditional” preference for a monarchy, saying the decision would require careful consideration.

“I tend to be more traditional and would tend to sit personally more with a monarchy-aligned arrangement. But… as we find in a modern world, there’s always new information and new views.”

With celebrations for Te Vaiaho o te Gagana Tokelau - Tokelau Language Week - underway in New Zealand, Reti reaffirmed the government’s commitment to honouring Pacific cultural heritage.

“They're [language weeks] an important part of their mission as a collaborative effort to be guardians and repositories of Pacific languages.

“I’m very excited to profile [Tokelau Language Week] and give it that opportunity to refresh, revitalise, and be vibrant in the Pacific community.”

Dr Shane Reti acknowledges Tokelau Language Week