Samoa

Keeping the Pacific nuclear-free, in line with the Rarotonga treaty, was a recurring theme from the leaders of Tonga, Cook Islands and Samoa to New Zealand last week. Audio

NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa have signed a renewed Statement of Partnership in Apia today.

For Valeria Gascoigne, it is an emotional moment. "It's a celebration of being Māori and also Samoan, and being proud of both." Audio

Samoa's Appeal Court has dismissed an appeal by Speaker Papali'i Ta'eu Masipa'u against a Supreme Court decision to reinstate two MPs.

Plans are in the pipeline to offer a diploma in education programme at the National University of Samoa to try and address the teacher shortage.

The Samoa Rugby Union - Lakapi Samoa - will meet this week to discuss requests for salaries and allowances from members of the Manu Samoa Sevens team.

Haylani Kuruppu, 25, made pageantry history by securing 1st runner-up at the recent Miss Global competition in Vietnam.

"Brain drain" has been touted as the main reason for senior students in Samoa taking on teaching roles.

New Zealand's incoming High Commissioner to Sāmoa, Si'alei Van Toor, is the first person of Sāmoan heritage appointed to the role.