The future of New Zealand’s economy and national security will increasingly depend on strong international partnerships, according to commentator Matthew Tukaki, who says recent developments involving India, the Pacific and Africa demonstrate that Aotearoa must take a broader view of its place in the world.
Speaking with Radio Waatea’s Dale Husband, Tukaki discussed the newly announced New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement, the proposed Pacific Defence Alliance, growing instability in parts of Africa, including Nigeria, and the wider geopolitical shifts reshaping the Indo-Pacific.
Tukaki said the Free Trade Agreement with India represents a significant opportunity for New Zealand exporters, particularly across agriculture, education, technology and Māori enterprise. However, he cautioned against expecting immediate economic gains, noting that free trade agreements often take years before businesses realise their full commercial potential.
He said the real value of the agreement lies not only in reducing tariffs and improving market access but also in strengthening a broader strategic partnership between two democratic nations with shared interests across the Indo-Pacific.
For Māori businesses, Tukaki believes the agreement presents opportunities to expand exports while showcasing indigenous innovation, premium food production, tourism and cultural enterprises to one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
The discussion also turned to the proposed Pacific Defence Alliance involving New Zealand, Australia and Fiji.
Tukaki said the Pacific continues to occupy an increasingly important strategic position as global powers compete for influence throughout the region. He believes closer cooperation between Pacific nations is essential to strengthen maritime security, disaster response, humanitarian assistance and regional stability.
He argued that Pacific security should continue to be led by Pacific nations themselves, with partnerships built on mutual respect, sovereignty and long-standing regional relationships rather than external competition.
Beyond the Pacific, Tukaki reflected on developments in Nigeria and other parts of Africa, pointing to ongoing political instability, security challenges and humanitarian concerns that continue to affect millions of people.
He said events unfolding in Africa serve as a reminder that New Zealand cannot afford to view international affairs in isolation. Global conflicts, political instability and economic disruption increasingly influence international supply chains, migration, trade relationships and food security.
Tukaki believes New Zealand’s foreign policy must continue balancing its traditional alliances while developing stronger relationships throughout Asia, the Pacific and emerging economies.
He said the modern geopolitical environment demands greater flexibility, particularly as international trade, defence, technology and economic security become increasingly interconnected.
The conversation highlighted the growing importance of strategic thinking as New Zealand navigates a rapidly changing international landscape.
From free trade and defence cooperation to regional diplomacy and economic resilience, Tukaki said the country’s future prosperity will depend on its ability to engage confidently with partners while remaining committed to its values and responsibilities within the Pacific.
As Parliament prepares for another period of debate on foreign affairs, trade and defence, those issues are expected to remain firmly at the centre of New Zealand’s political agenda.
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