Man Sentenced to Over 11 Years for Role in Meth Import Scheme

A man has been sentenced to over 11 years in prison for his involvement in a scheme to import nearly 50 kilograms of methamphetamine into New Zealand. Va’a Va’a, who was facing financial difficulties, anticipated a payout of approximately $100,000 for his role in the operation. Instead, he received a sentence of 11 years and three months after pleading guilty to a charge of importing methamphetamine.

Va’a’s involvement in the scheme was described by authorities as lacking sophistication. The drugs were cleverly concealed within boxes containing vacuum sealing equipment. The total weight of the methamphetamine involved was 49.43 kilograms. Va’a supplied a Customs “client code,” typically issued to commercial importers, which allowed him to facilitate clearances and track the shipments.

In one notable communication, he texted, “Just want to make sure I’m home to catch it,” indicating his direct engagement in the logistics of the operation. Law enforcement later discovered this text message on his phone, while he had deleted other communications, including those with a man known by the alias Pako Brendo, under whose direction he was allegedly operating.

Background and Sentencing

Va’a had previously owned a business that failed about two years before his involvement in the drug importation. The court heard that he was under significant “cultural pressure” to provide for his family members. Following his initial charge in the Manukau District Court in August 2023, he ultimately entered a guilty plea in January 2025. The court sentenced him in May 2025, and he later appealed, arguing that the prison term was excessively long. The Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal, affirming the sentence.

The justices noted that Va’a admitted he was motivated by financial gain due to his failing business and ongoing financial problems. They remarked, “While modest in comparison with the expected commercial profit of the importation, this was still a significant sum.”

In a letter addressed to the court, Va’a expressed deep remorse for his actions, stating that he had let down his entire family. He acknowledged the detrimental impact of methamphetamine use on the Pacific Island community and expressed disappointment in himself: “I am disappointed, disgusted and ashamed [of] my actions.” He added that his family had severed ties with him and that the conviction would hinder his plans to relocate his family to Australia in search of better opportunities.

Judicial Findings

Despite Va’a’s expressions of remorse, the sentencing judge concluded that it did not demonstrate “true remorse.” This sentiment was echoed by the justices of the Court of Appeal, who stated, “The remorse expected was focused on the circumstances Mr. Va’a found himself in and the consequences of his conviction for himself.” They noted that his regret came only after he realized the serious implications of his actions and the impact of his incarceration on his family.

Although Va’a operated under the guidance of Pako Brendo, the appeal court highlighted that he played an “operational and active part” in the drug importation process. He was responsible for receiving the consignments, coordinating with the logistics company, and monitoring shipment clearances using his Customs “client code.” Had it not been for police intervention, he likely would have participated in unpacking the vacuum sealers.

The case underscores the serious legal consequences of drug trafficking and the broader societal impacts of methamphetamine use, particularly within vulnerable communities. As authorities continue to combat drug-related crimes, the sentencing of individuals like Va’a serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with such illegal activities.