'Breach of trust': NZ extends pause on Cook Islands payments

'Breach of Trust': NZ Extends Pause on Cook Islands Payments

New Zealand has prolonged its suspension of direct financial support to the Government of the Cook Islands following the nation's partnership agreements with China earlier this year. The decision reflects concerns over a loss of confidence in the bilateral relationship.

Funding on Hold

According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, funding totaling NZ$29.8 million remains frozen across two financial years.

"We took this step reluctantly and after careful consideration. Direct funding to another government relies on a high degree of trust. The Cook Islands Government breached New Zealand’s trust through a series of actions that are well known."

Conditions for Reinstating Support

The spokesperson noted that New Zealand’s concerns “need to be addressed and trust restored” before the funds can be released.

Ongoing Assistance

Despite the suspension, New Zealand continues to provide development support to the Cook Islands in key areas such as health, education, governance, security, and humanitarian aid. These efforts are managed through New Zealand's own agencies and regional programs.

"New Zealand remains deeply committed to the Cook Islands and its people. We share a unique constitutional relationship and the people of the Cook Islands are New Zealand citizens."

Background

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters notified the Cook Islands Government of the initial decision to pause the payments in early June, following Prime Minister Mark Brown’s signing of a partnership agreement with China.

Author’s summary: New Zealand maintains assistance but withholds direct aid to the Cook Islands until mutual trust, weakened by its China partnership, is restored.

NZ Herald — 2025-11-09