The fishing restriction placed on the villagers in the district of Safata for more than five months has been lifted allowing people to return to their livelihoods.

The district relies upon fishing and marine life as a source of income. The fishing restriction meant stopping all fishing and marine activities after the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui in October last year.

Although the Marine Pollution Advisory Committee (MPAC) confirmed the complete removal of the precautionary zone the villagers are restricted from entering the two-kilometre radius around the site of the sunken ship. This is to allow for the continuation of the removal of fuel operation.

The restricted zone was established to prevent villagers from fishing in any part of the ocean in the Safata District until scientific testing confirmed that the seawater and marine life in this area were clear and uncontaminated. 

A statement from the MPAC on Wednesday afternoon said it received the good news from the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) on Tuesday and subsequently lifted the order on the precautionary zone.

MPAC noted the restricted area within the two-kilometre radius is strictly off-limit to all unauthorised individuals, boats and any type of aircraft (including drones).

Currently, the MPAC in collaboration with the New Zealand Government along with its contractors, continue to carry out specialized operations to remove fuel from the HMNZS Manawanui.

More than 300,000 litres of diesel has been removed from the Manawanui while more than 500,000 litres of diesel and other chemicals remain on board.

The Ministry extends its deepest gratitude to the esteemed leaders and representatives of the Safata District for their ongoing support of the Government’s efforts.