The Maritime Union says the Government’s latest maritime security strategy risks becoming an expensive distraction from the real crisis facing New Zealand’s shipping sector — the decline of locally owned and operated coastal shipping.
The union has criticised plans focused on maritime surveillance, underwater infrastructure monitoring and expanded security coordination, arguing the Government should instead prioritise rebuilding domestic shipping capability and strengthening New Zealand’s economic resilience.
The criticism follows renewed Government emphasis on maritime security through updated national security frameworks and increased focus on protecting critical underwater infrastructure, shipping lanes and maritime borders. The Ministry of Transport recently updated its Maritime Security Strategy, highlighting threats ranging from organised crime and cyberattacks to disruptions targeting ports and subsea infrastructure.
The Maritime Union says while security risks are real, New Zealand remains dangerously dependent on foreign-owned vessels and international shipping companies for critical freight and supply chains. Union representatives argue the country’s ability to respond to emergencies, supply disruptions or geopolitical tensions is weakened by the lack of a strong domestic merchant fleet.
The debate comes amid growing international concern about maritime resilience, supply chain security and the strategic importance of domestic shipping industries. Several countries, including the United States, have recently announced major investments aimed at rebuilding local shipbuilding and maritime capability as geopolitical tensions intensify globally.
The union also says resources being directed toward high-level security initiatives would be better spent supporting New Zealand-flagged ships, local crews and long-term coastal freight infrastructure. Concerns have also been raised about the ongoing reliability of Cook Strait freight connections and the country’s vulnerability to international shipping disruptions.
Government agencies maintain maritime security remains essential for protecting trade routes, fisheries, border security and critical infrastructure across New Zealand’s vast maritime territory. Officials say stronger coordination between defence, transport and intelligence agencies is necessary as security threats evolve.
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