New Zealand is considering joining a new regional defence alliance formed by Australia and Fiji, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirming that discussions on closer military cooperation are a logical step as security challenges continue to evolve across the Pacific.
The Ocean of Peace Alliance, signed earlier this week, formally strengthens defence ties between Australia and Fiji by committing both countries to support one another through mutual defence obligations. The agreement also allows other Pacific nations with military forces to become members.
The alliance was announced shortly before China carried out a test of a long-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missile that landed in the Pacific Ocean, adding to growing concerns among regional governments over security and strategic competition.
Christopher Luxon welcomed the agreement, saying New Zealand already shares a strong military partnership with Australia and maintains an enduring relationship with Fiji. He also added that the three countries have worked closely for many years to promote security and stability across the Pacific, making engagement with the alliance a natural progression.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said New Zealand is open to strengthening defence cooperation with Australia, Fiji and other Pacific nations through the alliance. Winston Peters said Pacific leaders have consistently supported regional solutions to security challenges and have sought to ensure that Pacific nations take the lead in addressing issues affecting the region. According to him, expanding the long-standing partnerships between New Zealand, Australia and Fiji would deepen cooperation and contribute to stronger regional unity.
Defence Minister Chris Penk described the proposed alliance as an opportunity to reinforce cooperation among Pacific countries while supporting collective security across the region.
The announcement comes as Pacific governments continue to monitor China’s expanding military presence. Winston Peters recently described China’s ballistic missile launch as deeply concerning, stating that Pacific nations have repeatedly made clear they do not wish to see the region become an arena for strategic competition between external powers.
He further added the missile test was not consistent with maintaining peace and stability in the South Pacific and suggested that similar military activities by China appear to be occurring with increasing frequency.
Concerns over China’s activities have also been reflected within New Zealand’s defence establishment. An internal New Zealand Defence Force assessment, obtained by AFP last month, warned that Chinese naval deployments and ballistic missile tests are expected to become a persistent feature of the Pacific security environment.
Although New Zealand has not yet announced a formal decision on joining the alliance, recent comments from senior government ministers suggest Wellington is actively considering deeper defence cooperation as Pacific nations respond to changing regional security conditions.
