The inquest into the death of a New Zealand naval sailor has opened in Samoa.
Joseph Tua was last seen at To Sua ocean trench. Photo: 123RF
Twenty-four-year-old Kiligo Joseph Lemafo'e Tua dissapeared last April, a day after he arrived at Leauvaa village to visit family.
Mr Tua's uncle, Sola Ati Nepa, told the inquest his nephew had used his son's vehicle to visit the To Sua trench tourist site on the morning he dissapeared.
Last year, the New Zealand Herald reported the car was found that day in To Sua.
Police told the newspaper that Mr Tua could have been struck by a wave, fallen into the ocean and swept out to sea.
The inquest has been adjourned until 20 June when the investigating police officer will give evidence.
