The New Zealand Defence Force will aid the Science and Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) to commence a further round of seawater sampling and monitoring in the precautionary area created following the grounding and sinking of HMNZS Manawanui.

NZDF said they were asked by SROS for assistance in conducting updated seawater sampling beginning this week within the precautionary area. NZDF will be providing boat transport to take an SROS technician to sites designated by them where they will take samples which will then be analysed in the SROS laboratory.

Analysis of seawater in the Safata district coastline showed elevated levels of diesel. The testing continues and fishing has been prohibited in the impacted villages.

Commodore Andrew Brown, the NZDF Senior National Representative for Operation Resolution said being able to provide assistance to the Samoan authorities allowing them to conduct sea water testing is an extremely worthwhile use of resources.

“The NZDF appreciate the importance of the marine and coastal environments to the people of Samoa, said Commodore Brown.”

The results from seawater monitoring will be provided by SROS to the Samoan Marine Pollution Advisory Committee who will then decide on the extent of the precautionary area going forward.

“I have been impressed,” said Commodore Brown, “with the collaborative and collegial manner in which SROS technical staff, Maritime NZ and NZDF personnel have worked together to enable SROS to conduct this round of seawater monitoring.”

Meanwhile, residents in the impacted areas have called on the government to act fast and provide them relief as their livelihoods have suffered. The predominantly fishing community have not been able to fish in their traditional waters since the sinking of the ship.