NZ celebrates PNG’s 50 years of independence, reinforcing ties and support for sovereignty

New Zealand is celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence, recognising it as a “major achievement” amid the country’s historical challenges, the government says.

Foreign Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, who attended the celebrations in Port Moresby this week, emphasised the importance of regional partnerships and shared Pacific values.

In an interview with William Terite on Pacific Mornings, Peters highlighted New Zealand’s long-standing support since PNG’s independence in 1975.

“We're a Pacific country,” Peters says. “They’ve had 17 different governments. They face steep terrain and extraordinary cultural diversity, with over 800 languages.

“Many cynics didn’t think independence would work. But it has. And that’s something we should congratulate them for.”

Peters, who was accompanied by Opposition Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Peeni Henare in PNG, says the moment is more than ceremonial; it reinforces the shared values Aotearoa has with the Pacific.

Vibrant colours, traditional dances and cultural performances lights up the PNG 50th Independence celebrations. Photo / Facebook.com/Amazing Port Moresby 50th Anniversary Celebrations

“We were one of eight countries there in 1975 when Papua New Guinea gained independence,” Peters says.

“We’re committed to strengthening the ways we work together to support PNG’s priorities and our wider goal of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous region.”

New Zealand High Commissioner to PNG, Peter Zwart, also attended the celebrations in Port Moresby and praised the vibrant display of culture and unity.

“It has been wonderful to see the vibrant culture on display, and to witness the energy of the people coming together in celebration,” Zwart told PNG news outlet Haus Bung.

Festival of a Thousand Tribes celebrates Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage in full color and rhythm. Photo / Facebook.com/Amazing Port Moresby 50th Anniversary Celebrations.

“New Zealand looks forward to continuing to work alongside Papua New Guinea in supporting community development, cultural preservation, and economic growth.”

Peters also recognised PNG’s strategic importance in a region facing growing global interest, emphasising that the visit's focus was overwhelmingly positive.

“It was really more about celebration,” Peters tells Terite. “We’re in a good space with PNG. They appreciate that we’ve been a long-time reliable partner, and they said so.”

He pointed to New Zealand’s involvement in Bougainville mediation and peace efforts as examples of sustained, quiet diplomacy. “New Zealand is remembered there.”

PNG Prime Minister James Marape says the 50th anniversary is “a renewed promise” to strengthen democracy, advance sovereignty, and improve livelihoods.

Papua New Guinea stand tall in traditional regalia, marking 50 years of independence at the Festival of a Thousand Tribes a powerful display of heritage, strength, and unity. Photo / Facebook.com/Amazing Port Moresby 50th Anniversary Celebrations

“Our forefathers built this country on hope, determination, and conviction,” Marape says

“It is now our generation’s responsibility to carry the flag, defend our democracy, and secure our future for the next 50 years.”

As part of the regional momentum, Australia has announced funding to expand PNG’s Parliament House, reinforcing its democratic institutions.

This comes amid discussions around a proposed defence treaty that have sparked domestic scrutiny, especially concerning transparency and sovereignty.

Meanwhile, the youth played a central role in the celebrations. During the PNG Regional Youth Summit, 20 young Pacific leaders gathered to discuss culture, leadership, and generational change.

Peters says New Zealand’s Pacific policy is founded on respect for sovereignty and local leadership, rather than paternalism.

“We don’t want to be in charge of other people’s countries. We want to work with them.”

“Our job is to ensure foreign affairs are successful. We’ve got a deeply qualified team and strong regional relationships.”

He also signalled New Zealand’s support for more localised economic models that empower Pacific nations.

“We believe countries should not be forced to pay world prices for their own energy or resources,” Peters says.

“That’s not fair. We want to see our neighbours thrive, on their terms, not under someone else’s blueprint.”

Beyond PNG’s borders, diaspora communities across the Pacific and Australia also marked the golden jubilee. In Queensland, where large PNG communities reside, events celebrated the island nation’s culture, language, and pride.

As PNG looks towards the future, unity, identity, and sovereignty remain central to its growth and are supported by long-time partners like New Zealand.

Watch Winston Peters' interview below.