One of the attractions to visitors travelling to the South Pacific is the migratory passage of humpback whales through the region. The whales travel from feeding grounds near Antartica to their breeding grounds in the warmer tropical waters closer to the equator. Tonga is a well-known destination for those interested in spotting these majestic marine creatures and whale-watching tours are readily available during the months of July-October. The west coast of Rarotonga in Cook Islands is another favourite spot, as the whales can often be sighted from the beach during that part of the year.

Samoa, though not as well-known for its whale-watching tours as neighbouring Tonga, also witnesses the passage of the humpbacks. The waters surrounding Samoa have a rich and diverse marine life, including whales, dolphins, turtles, eagle rays and sting rays.

One local dive and surf operation - Moanalei Dive'N'Surf - is committed to the preservation and care of its marine animals, and its General Manager, Stéphane Aubry, underwent an intensive 4-day training course last month specifically relating to the rescue of stranded whales and dolphins. The course was jointly organised between the Samoan Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Meteorology and Project Jonah New Zealand, and was held in the capital of Apia.

It is a notable achievement for Moanalei Dive'N'Surf, which has become the first and only dive operation in the South Pacific region to undergo this training.