Concerns raised over Cook Islands aid freeze, says Alfred Ngaro

A former New Zealand government minister says New Zealand’s decision to prolong the suspension of aid to the Cook Islands government is one of the most serious strains in the 100-year history of their constitutional relationship.

In an interview on Pacific Mornings, Alfred Ngaro, leader of the NewZeal Party, says the decision reflects the ongoing strained relationship between Wellington and Rarotonga.

“The mood is that people are concerned… They’re losing trust and confidence [in the Cook Islands government],” Ngaro says.

The freeze on funding now totals $29.8 million and affects the financial years 2024/25 and 2025/26.

It comes after Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown travelled to China earlier this year to sign a strategic partnership without consulting New Zealand.

Documents reveal that the funding pause was initially imposed in June and has been extended.

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown. Photo/Supplied

A spokesperson for New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, says the decision was made reluctantly and after careful consideration.

They say the concerns about the Cook Islands’ actions need to be addressed and trust restored before any funding can be released.

“Significant development assistance to the Cook Islands continues, including in areas such as health, education, governance, security and humanitarian support,” the spokesperson says.

Foreign Affairs Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters stopped $18.2m of funding to the Cook Islands in June. Photo/Supplied

“This is being delivered through New Zealand agencies and regional programmes. New Zealand remains deeply committed to the Cook Islands and its people. We share a unique constitutional relationship and the people of the Cook Islands are New Zealand citizens.”

Having recently returned from the Cook Islands, Ngaro says the solution lies in renewed dialogue. He highlights Peters’ close relationship with the Cook Islands and his commitment to the nation.

“We have to realise that these small island nations do rely upon Australia and New Zealand for a number of issues,” Ngaro says. “I hope and pray that wise heads will then come to the fore, get it done, sort it out and return that trust and confidence.”

Listen to Alfred Ngaro's full interview below.