Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has announced he will travel to New Zealand for a week to undergo “overdue medical checks.”

Speaking during a live broadcast on his official Facebook page, Laaulialemalietoa said he would depart on the Wednesday afternoon flight to New Zealand, describing the visit as "overdue."

“Today I will leave Samoa for overdue medical checks,” he said. “It has been six months, and the doctors have advised that I go for my medical checks."

The prime minister did not specify whether the trip would be considered on official duty.

“It has been a busy period; it has been seven to eight months since the government was formed, but there has been ongoing work for the betterment of the government.” He was also advised by doctors to ensure he is "well rested."

He further said he would keep in contact with the people of Samoa. Laaulialemalietoa said that his medical assessments will be carried out in New Zealand.

Laaulialemalietoa travelled to New Zealand in September 2025, when he was flown on a private plane for medical treatment and admitted to Middlemore Hospital in Mangere.

He also addressed ongoing government matters, including a Cabinet meeting scheduled for 10 am, and said regular duties from the government would continue in his absence.