New Zealand's Ardern comments on Australian nuclear subs ban | AFP

"We have an independent foreign policy", says New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, after confirming that New Zealand would not lift a ban on nuclear-powered vessels entering its waters in the wake of Australia's decision to develop a nuclear submarine fleet.

N.B.: AFP’s services and content are for professional use only

[dukkha]

The fact that NZ is such a nice place is only because they spend almost nothing on defence. It isn't much of an alliance if only one side is spending money to build a realistic defence force. Not only do they rely on Aust for their defence, but they now have the audacity to say our submarines will not be welcome in their waters. Do the Kiwis seriously think that if Aust. was attacked they would be ignored? Whatever happened to the ANZAC comradeship?

[MrA]

If NZ was north of Australia and they couldn't hide behind Australia, their rhetoric would be different.

[MichaelC-nodx]

Usa Uk australia talking, making alliances, getting shit done

NZ karen out of nowhere: "We wont allow their nuclear in our waters"
Yeah sorry kiwi karen nobody was actually asking. They will be out and about protecting you regardless

[henryvagincourt]

You won't know the boat's are there anyway, you have no military to speak of, it's a disgrace.

[nobody-fndb]

Having spent time in New Zealand it’s a beautiful country and beautiful people but they have to know they only enjoy the freedom they have is because they know anyone threatens New Zealand has to go through Australia.

[daveabd]

Well comrade. You wouldn't even know they were in your waters. So it's kind of a mute point lovie.

[Pius-XI]

NZ is as insignificant as an empty crisp packet. I honestly have no idea what people see in the country. If you blew it up I doubt the world would notice

[nobody-fndb]

This is a good thing for New Zealand and its 3 boat Navy!!

[coolbreeze]

Listen to her Australia should just leave NZ

[mistersmacky]

Can I suggest the first test run for the subs is to sail right between NZ North and South Islands and empty the septic tank between them, right about where the Cook Straight ferry goes.

[abhi]

Why does this lesbian mushroom make no sense permanently

[jeffstrong]

Why does Australia need nuclear submarines more than S Korea? S Korea is next door to N Korea and China thus able to keep eye on them with nuclear submarines more efficiently arrive in few hours not few days for Australia and can be used against them if they try to fire nuclear weapons better than Australia. S Korea should work a deal with France or Russia for its nuclear submarines projects.