Two men received imprisonment sentences on May 29 at the Supreme Court, after pleading guilty to possession of cannabis that included seeds found to have been germinating, possibly for cultivation.

Satio Matakaiongo and (32) and Sione 'Atupuha Latu (33) were each sentenced to two-years and three-months imprisonment, with the final nine-months suspended on strict conditions including undergoing a course on alcohol and drug abuse.

Hon Mr Justice Cato said Matakaiongo had two previous convictions for possession of illicit drugs in 2016 for which he was fined.

His vehicle was searched outside Latu’s home and one plastic bag containing 89.2 grams of cannabis and a number of empty small bags contained in a larger bag were found.

In addition, cash including $800 pa’anga, NZD$1430, USD$20 and AUD$10 were also located.

At Latu's home, police found bowls with cannabis seeds germinating in them.

Other cannabis seeds were also located on the property as well as a large bag, the accused had hidden in the bush, in which 133 small packets containing cannabis were found.

He said for Latu the amount of drug he was found in possession of is a larger amount and the possession of seeds, some germinating, suggested he was in the process of commencing to cultivate.

"He is a first offender, although from his probation report, there is some indication that he has used cannabis at least personally for some years.

"I am satisfied as I have said that this amount was not for his own personal use but for commercial gain as well," said the judge.