PM stay in NZ extended on doctor’s orders

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 18 October 2025 – Medical advice have extended Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt’s stay in New Zealand for observation for another three weeks.

This was confirmed by the Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo at a press conference yesterday.

The Prime Minister was supposed to return home this weekend. However after surgery to his ankle three weeks ago, doctors have advised him not to risk walking too early until he is medically cleared and to be able to travel back home.

X-rays two days before he was sworn in as Prime Minister revealed fractured bones in one of his ankles and doctors advised urgent surgery.

He wore an ankle brace and used a forearm crutch then until he flew to New Zealand on an air-ambulance a few days after he was sworn in and underwent surgery after medical observation.

With the extended stay in New Zealand, Toelupe was asked if the Government will send financial assistance for the Prime Minister’s medical bills.

“Not at this stage but perhaps after the budget is passed, but at the moment we have not discussed that in Cabinet,” said Toelupe.

His trip and medical bills are covered by his family and the FAST party.

Parliament reconvenes next Wednesday for the budget debate with the Government to be led by Toelupe Maoiautele Onesemo as Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo.