Before New Zealand decides, by joining AUKUS Pillar 2, that we want to be America’s Friend with Benefits (cyber warfare tools, missiles, etc), we should at least pause for a moment and consider who we are getting into bed with. Australia also has time to reconsider its hasty AUKUS tryst.

New Zealand’s government has been considering joining Pillar 2 of AUKUS – a military alliance aimed firmly at China, our biggest trading partner. The Americans haven’t hidden their delight at New Zealand’s perceived shift in stance. Will New Zealanders have a say?

The former New Zealand Prime Minister – the safest pair of hands this country has had in living memory – gave a masterclass on the importance of maintaining an independent foreign policy when she spoke at an AUKUS symposium held in Parliament’s old Legislative Chambers on April 18.