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

New Zealand Extends Pause on Cook Islands Payments

New Zealand has extended its suspension of direct payments to the Cook Islands Government after it entered into partnership agreements with China earlier this year.

Funding on Hold

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that NZ$29.8 million in funding remains paused, covering 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.”

New Zealand has stated that these concerns need to be resolved and trust restored before the withheld funding can be released.

Ongoing Support Despite Pause

Despite the funding pause, New Zealand continues significant development assistance to the Cook Islands in areas such as health, education, governance, security, and humanitarian support. This aid is provided through New Zealand 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 informed the Cook Islands Government of the initial funding pause decision in early June following the signing of the partnership with China by Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown.

Author's summary: New Zealand has paused $29.8m in direct funding to the Cook Islands due to breaches of trust related to their partnership with China, while still providing substantial indirect support.

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NZ Herald NZ Herald — 2025-11-09

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