PM Encourages Strategic Management of Samoa’s Assets in New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand – 21 July 2026 – As part of his official programme in Wellington, Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataʻivao Fosi Schmidt, met with Samoa’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, H.E Afamasaga Faamatalaupu Toleafoa, and staff of the Samoa High Commission.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the Prime Minister to receive a comprehensive briefing on the operations of the High Commission, its consular services, and the management of Government-owned properties and assets under the Mission’s responsibility. He also toured a number of these Government-owned assets, gaining first-hand insight into their current use and future potential.

Prime Minister Hon. La’aulialemalietoa commended the High Commissioner and staff for their dedication and professionalism in representing Samoa’s interests, strengthening the enduring relationship between Samoa and New Zealand, and providing essential services and support to Samoan citizens living, working, and studying throughout New Zealand.

The Prime Minister encouraged a forward-looking and commercially minded approach to the stewardship of Samoa’s assets abroad. While reaffirming that the High Commission’s foremost responsibility is to serve the needs of Samoan citizens, he emphasised that Government-owned assets should also be viewed as strategic national investments capable of generating long-term value for Samoa.

The Prime Minister challenged the Mission to explore innovative opportunities to maximise the utilisation of existing assets, including the commercial leasing of office space where appropriate, while also identifying other sustainable investment opportunities that could strengthen Samoa’s economic interests in New Zealand.

He noted that prudent asset management is not solely about preserving Government property, but about ensuring those assets work for the people of Samoa by generating sustainable returns, creating new opportunities, and supporting the long-term financial resilience of the Government.

Prime Minister Hon. La’aulialemalietoa also encouraged the High Commission to continue thinking strategically about future investments and partnerships that could further enhance Samoa’s presence and economic footprint in New Zealand, ensuring that the country’s overseas assets remain productive and responsive to future opportunities.

The meeting concluded with the Prime Minister reaffirming his confidence in the High Commission and its staff, encouraging them to continue serving Samoa with integrity, innovation, and a shared commitment to advancing the nation’s interests while strengthening the longstanding friendship between Samoa and New Zealand.