New Zealand-Southeast Asia Relations
A survey of the contemporary relationship


This research report looks at Southeast Asia’s ongoing importance to New Zealand.

The region sits astride important sea lanes that are crucial for New Zealand’s economic wellbeing. New Zealand has always played a role in Southeast Asian security, including in relation to the latest threat of terrorism. However, Wellington’s ability to influence events in a region that is important to New Zealand’s security, is limited. Furthermore, New Zealand’s links with Indonesia remain weak, particularly when set alongside those with Singapore and Malaysia.

Author: Anthony Smith