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Will's Word is Pacific Mornings host William Terite's daily opinion piece on the latest news happening here and around the Pacific.

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Opinion

Should NZ allow its Pacific Realm nations independence?

Pacific Mornings' host William Terite says countries like Niue and the Cook Islands are pushing for more independence from NZ.

William Terite
William Terite
Published
21 October 2024, 7:55am
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Prime Minister Mark Brown recently hinted at the prospect of the Cook Islands getting its own passport – which is ultimately about establishing a distinct national identity for its people.

While it sounds good and I like the idea, it raises questions doesn’t it about the practicality of introducing a passport.

It also begs the question, what would a Cook Islands passport mean for existing New Zealand citizenship? Would it enhance independence, or complicate the relationship with New Zealand?

Now the idea of a new name for the country and anthem were also recently floated - and I actually back this.

Is this desire to be more independent a sign that the Cook Islands wants to distance itself from New Zealand?

The same question could be asked about Niue which celebrates its 50th anniversary of self-governance this weekend.

Both realm countries ready to pursue a more independent future? It's an exciting but also daunting prospect.