Cook Islands and New Zealand have today signed a Declaration on Defence and Security, setting out a clear and practical framework for how the two countries will work together in areas of defence and security.
The signing of the Declaration enables the relationship to move forward, including the resumption of New Zealand’s Core Sector Support and Public Sector Strengthening funding, totalling NZD$29.8 million (US$16.62 million), the Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement.
Cook Islands and New Zealand have been at loggerheads in a diplomatic row dating back to late 2024. This initially concerned the now-abandoned Cook Islands passport proposal and the operations of the country’s shipping registry.
Tensions intensified in February last year when PM Brown visited China to oversee the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership and other agreements – a move that concerned New Zealand due to a “lack of proper consultation”. Subsequently, New Zealand paused $29.8 million ((US$16.62 million) in direct budget payments to the Cook Islands Government, covering the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years.
In a statement, Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said the agreement addresses a breakdown that had led Wellington to pause parts of its financial support.
“It’s no secret that our two governments have had a series of serious disagreements since late 2024.
“As we debated how to get past these disagreements, it became clear that one of their root causes was the lack of a shared understanding about the requirements of our special constitutional relationship – especially as it pertained to defence and security matters and the extent of the consultation required between us,” said Peters.
According to the OPM, the Declaration reflects a relationship grounded in mutual respect, shared values and a long history of partnership. It brings greater clarity to how both governments will cooperate, communicate and consult on matters of shared interest.
Prime Minister Mark Brown said this moment represents a steady and considered step forward for the Cook Islands.
“Key moments in the journey of a nation arrive through clear thinking, steady navigation, and a commitment to the values that define us. Today, we have arrived at such a moment.”
The Declaration is non-legally binding and does not change the constitutional arrangements between the Cook Islands and New Zealand.
It reaffirms the Cook Islands as a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand, while setting out how consultation will continue in practice.
“The Declaration before us affirms the Cook Islands executive authority over our islands and Exclusive Economic Zone, that the Cook Islands conducts its international relations in its own right, and that our ongoing consultation reflects the depth of our regard for one another as a practice of partnership, not a condition of it.”
It also outlines areas of prioritised cooperation, including national security, policing, maritime security, cyber security, and humanitarian response, while strengthening expectations around timely and transparent communication between both governments.
The Prime Minister emphasised that this work has been carried out with openness and in the interests of the Cook Islands people.
“Good relationships require an honest reading of where we are, so we can chart the course ahead with confidence. That is what both our governments have done, in good faith.”
Brown said the Declaration is ultimately about strengthening the country’s position and future.
“To the people of the Cook Islands, this moment is yours. This Declaration is a
constructive step to align with our long-term national goals and your future.”
The Government remains focused on ensuring strong, stable relationships that support national development and deliver for Cook Islanders.
