Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has held talks with Polynesian leaders in Samoa, focusing on the impact of the Middle East conflict on Pacific fuel supplies and the future of Moana Pasifika rugby.
Peters attended Samoa’s Independence Day celebrations in Apia over the long weekend and met with Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua and Tokelau leader Alapati Tavite.
The discussions centred on rising fuel costs and supply concerns across the Pacific, which have been exacerbated by ongoing instability in the Middle East. Peters said New Zealand had reaffirmed its support for Pacific nations and was coordinating with international partners including Australia, the United States, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to help address the situation.
The future of Moana Pasifika was also a key topic during the visit. Peters said the team holds significant cultural importance for New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga, and warned it would be regrettable if the franchise was unable to compete in future Super Rugby seasons.
New Zealand has indicated its support for Samoa and Tonga’s desire to see the team continue and has directed officials to urgently engage with New Zealand Rugby and other stakeholders to explore options for securing a financially sustainable future for the franchise.
As part of his visit, Peters also met with Samoa’s opposition leader, Tuilaʻepa Saʻilele Malielegaoi, in keeping with Samoan tradition.
Peters was due to return to New Zealand on Monday.
The Minister was honoured to meet Samoan Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs La’aulialemalietoa today.
The Minister noted that Samoa is a key partner for New Zealand in the Pacific, with our relationship founded on the Treaty of Friendship that we signed 64 years ago… pic.twitter.com/bPLvMyzr9z
— Winston Peters (@NewZealandMFA) June 1, 2026
