The Samoa Ministry of Customs has strengthened its long standing partnership with its New Zealand counterpart through a high-level study tour focused on strengthening institutional capability and enhancing border management knowledge.
The tour led by Samoa’s Minister of Customs, Hon. Masinalupe Leatuāvao Makesi Pisi Masinalupe included a bilateral meeting between the Honourable Casey Costello, Minister of Customs of New Zealand.
The Ministers discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in addressing emerging border security challenges facing the Pacific region, including transnational organised crime and illicit drug trafficking.
The Ministers discussed intelligence sharing and ongoing capability development, and reaffirmed the strong and enduring relationship between Samoa and New Zealand Customs.
The Samoa delegation included the newly appointed CEO of the Samoa Ministry of Customs, Mulipola Lemalu Maletino Teofilo and the Assistant CEO for Border Operations. They met with the New Zealand Customs Service (NZCS) Comptroller, Christine Stevenson and Deputy Comptroller Jamie Bamford.
The Minister was accompanied by the Ministry’s newly appointed CEO and the Assistant CEO for Border Operations. They met with the NZ Customs Comptroller, Christine Stevenson and Deputy Comptroller Jamie Bamford.
The five-day official study tour to New Zealand from 13–17 July 2026 was supported by the Manaaki New Zealand Short-Term Scholarship Programme.
“Throughout the programme, the Samoa delegation gained valuable first-hand insight into New Zealand Customs modern border management systems, operational practices, intelligence capabilities, and use of advanced technology in securing New Zealand’s borders.”
The delegation undertook extensive visits to several key New Zealand Customs facilities, including:
– Auckland International Airport border operations
– Air Cargo Inspection Facility
– Auckland Mail Processing Centre
– New Zealand Customs Intelligence capability
– Maritime and Sea Cargo Inspection Facility
– Detector Dog Training Centre in Trentham, Wellington
The visiting team observed contemporary border security practices, risk management systems, intelligence-led enforcement, cargo and passenger processing, detector dog operations, and the integration of technology into Customs operations.
The official programme started with a traditional Mihi Whakatau, warmly welcoming the Samoa delegation to Aotearoa New Zealand.
The ceremony was hosted by the Skills New Zealand Office and reflected the shared cultural values and enduring relationship between Samoa and New Zealand.
Following the welcome, the delegation met with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade [M.F.A.T.] Pacific Connections Team, where discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation, capacity development, and New Zealand’s continued support for Samoa’s border security priorities.
In Wellington, the delegation held a series of high-level engagements at The Customhouse.
Discussions centred on strengthening bilateral cooperation, information sharing, leadership development, joint trainings, organisational capability, and future areas of collaboration between the two Customs administrations.
The programme also included productive engagements with the New Zealand Customs International Division, the Legal Unit, and members of the Pasifika Network, comprising New Zealand Customs officers of Pacific heritage, including Samoan officers serving within the New Zealand Customs Service.
These discussions highlighted the important role of Pacific leadership, cultural connections, and professional networks in supporting regional Customs cooperation.
Reflecting on the visit, Hon. Masinalupe acknowledged the significant value of the study tour and the practical knowledge gained by the Samoa delegation.
“This visit has provided invaluable exposure to international best practice in Customs administration and border management,” said the Minister.
“The experiences and knowledge gained will directly contribute to strengthening Samoa’s border security capability and support our ongoing efforts to modernise Customs operations for the benefit of our country and our region.”
“The Ministry of Customs expresses its sincere appreciation to the Government of New Zealand, the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the New Zealand Customs Service for their generous support, warm hospitality, and commitment to sharing their expertise.”
“The Ministry also extends its deepest appreciation to Comptroller Christine Stevenson, the New Zealand Customs Executive Leadership Team, and all New Zealand Customs officers who contributed to the success of the programme through their professionalism, openness, and willingness to share knowledge and experience.”
“This study tour further reinforces the longstanding partnership between Samoa Customs and the New Zealand Customs Service, a partnership founded on mutual trust, respect, and a shared commitment to protecting our borders and strengthening security across the Pacific.”
“As Samoa continues to modernise its Customs administration and enhance its border management capability, the Ministry remains committed to working closely with the New Zealand Customs Service and other regional partners to build resilient, secure, and well-connected borders that facilitate legitimate trade and travel while effectively combating transnational crime.”
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