New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, calls for a 'reset' in relations with the Cook Islands following agreements the latter signed with China. He highlights the strain on traditional ties due to opaque dealings and raises concerns over China's growing influence in the Pacific region.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Wednesday his country must “reset” its relationship with the Cook Islands government after its Pacific neighbour signed agreements with China without consultation.

The tiny Pacific nation’s partnership agreement with China was signed amid a furious diplomatic row with New Zealand, its former colonial ruler.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters wants to 'reset' New Zealand's relationship with Cook Islands. "During 2025, as we celebrate 60 years of free association, we are going to need to reset the government-to-government relationship," Peters said in his speech to the Pacific Island Political Science Association in Wellington.

The public quarrel between New Zealand and the Cook Islands — which share a passport, a military and constitutional ties — is a victory for Beijing.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has called for a reset in government-to-government relations with the Cook Islands after its Pacific neighbor signed agreements with China without consultation.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters yesterday said that his country must “reset” its relationship with the Cook Islands government after its Pacific neighbor signed agreements with China without consultation.

A $3m ship deal is among the early examples of how a polarising pact between the Asian superpower and a Pacific partner will bear fruit

Foreign Minister Winston Peters has used a policy address to remind the Cook Islands of their responsibilities under a longstanding pact with New Zealand.