New Zealand Warns of Persistent Chinese Military Activity in Pacific

An internal document from New Zealand officials, reviewed by AFP, cautions that China's ballistic missile tests and naval movements are likely to become a lasting characteristic in the Pacific region as Beijing continues to enhance its military capabilities.

The report highlights specific actions such as a Chinese naval task force crossing the Tasman Sea in February and the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile over the Pacific in September 2024, predicting these will become regular elements of the area's strategic environment.

Dated December 2025 and issued by New Zealand Defence Forces and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the document notes that Wellington was monitoring a Chinese naval fleet in the Philippine Sea at that time.

It further states that New Zealand officials are working closely with their Australian counterparts while maintaining a high level of operational vigilance regarding the movements of these vessels.

The 15-page report was submitted to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, as well as to the ministers of Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Intelligence.

China's Expanding Influence in the Pacific

China has invested heavily in developing its military capabilities in recent years, raising growing concerns among several regional countries about the security balance in the Pacific.

Responding to AFP's inquiry, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiaqun said he was unaware of the New Zealand document but reiterated China's commitment to "peaceful development."

He added that China's military development aims to protect national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and is not directed against any country, emphasizing that it contributes to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and globally.

Growth of Chinese Naval Presence

China's navy has expanded rapidly in recent years as part of Beijing's efforts to extend its influence in the Pacific, a region long dominated militarily by the United States.

New Zealand's concerns about Chinese activities intensified after Beijing announced the deployment of three Chinese warships in the Tasman Sea, between Australia and New Zealand, in February 2025.