New Zealand “Reluctantly” Extends Aid Ban on Cook Islands Due to China Ties

A file image of New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 28, 2025. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / POOL / AFP)

The government of New Zealand announced it would extend a halt of aid payments to the Cook Islands in reaction to a partnership agreement signed with China earlier this year. This marks the failure of ongoing talks between the two sides.

Wellington first announced the blocking of foreign assistance payments in June. The extension of the ban was announced this weekend. The pause of $18.2 million, and a further $11.6 million, covering two financial years, was reportedly communicated by letter in October. Some other forms of assistance continue.

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by CGSP Staff

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