China-New Zealand relations

The New Zealand PM has announced her resignation, but her impact on the country’s diplomacy will continue to resonate.

That was the question at play in a recent court case involving a businessman with debts in China and land holdings in New Zealand.

Throughout a recent speech, New Zealand’s prime minister was mild with her criticism of China and optimistic about the health and future of the bilateral relationship.

Wellington’s deeply ingrained tradition of foreign policy independence and robust economic ties to China serve as a considerable constraint on major policy change.

Is New Zealand suddenly softening its more pro-Western foreign policy – and its tougher line on China?

New Zealand’s foreign minister is on her first trip overseas: a seven-country tour of Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, the UAE, Qatar, the U.S., and Canada.

A statement issued by the New Zealand government alleging Chinese state involvement in hacking goes much further than a simple, pro forma endorsement of the views of New Zealand’s allies.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern delivered a keynote speech on foreign policy on Wednesday.

Ardern's unusually targeted comments against China followed growing diplomatic discontent with Wellington's stance.

Recently, a senior New Zealand minister advised Australia to “show respect” and act more diplomatically toward China. Canberra was not amused.

The Ardern government is using deliberately ambiguous tactics to deter an increasingly aggressive partner while (so far) avoiding punishment.