New Zealand Calls for 'Reset' in Relations with Cook Islands Over China Deal

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has called for a “reset” in government-to-government relations with the Cook Islands after its Pacific neighbor signed agreements with China without consultation. Speaking in Wellington, Peters highlighted concerns over Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown’s dealings with Beijing, emphasizing that it tested constitutional ties with New Zealand.

Despite strong people-to-people connections, Peters stressed challenges in the diplomatic relationship, especially as Cook Islands maintains free association with New Zealand, sharing a head of state and citizenship rights. While it has an independent foreign policy, both nations are expected to consult on security and defense matters.

Brown’s recent trip to Beijing resulted in a strategic partnership with China covering education, economy, infrastructure, fisheries, disaster management, and seabed mining. The agreement has raised security concerns in New Zealand, particularly as key details of the deal remain undisclosed. Peters noted that New Zealand had only seen one of the multiple memoranda of understanding signed between Cook Islands and China, leaving Wellington in the dark.

This follows an earlier move by the Cook Islands to introduce its own passports and citizenship—an effort New Zealand warned would require full independence. Meanwhile, tensions have also surfaced with Kiribati after it abruptly canceled a visit by New Zealand officials. Kiribati, like Cook Islands, has strengthened ties with China in recent years.

Peters stated that New Zealand has committed over NZ$100 million ($57 million) in aid to Kiribati over the past three years and will reassess its approach to ensure effective use of funds. With China’s growing influence in the Pacific, New Zealand is carefully reviewing its diplomatic and security strategies in the region.