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New Zealand’s conservative government will cut military spending by 6.6%, according to the defence minister's office, even as the armed forces struggle with ageing equipment, a shortage of manpower and ambitions for a greater regional role. According to previously unreported data, provided to Reuters by the defence minister, proposed defence spending will fall to NZ$4.95 billion ($3.03 billion) for the year that ends in June 2025. This year's defence budget was NZ$5.3 billion.

New Zealand's proposed defence budget for the next fiscal year will be 6.6% smaller than the current year's, affecting the armed forces' capacity amidst challenges like ageing equipment and manpower shortages. Efforts to enhance regional security roles are constrained by financial limitations and sustained underinvestment in defence capabilities.

New Zealand is sending a small defence team to the Middle East to join an international alliance against Houthi militants targeting civilian ships in the Red Sea.

The inaugural Australia-New Zealand 2+2 saw the new Luxon government draw closer to Australia – and AUKUS.

The Aukus weapons development and procurement project would help ensure peace and stability in the Pacific region. Read more at straitstimes.com.