The Cook Islands is preparing to enter into an exciting new partnership deal with China, which has caught the attention of the New Zealand Government.

While this could be a significant achievement for Beijing in expanding its influence in the Pacific, it has also surprised the Beehive, as it might affect the existing constitutional arrangements between the Cook Islands and New Zealand.

This year, the Cook Islands is marking 60 years of self-governance in free association with New Zealand. This milestone means they have the freedom to make their own decisions on policies and partnerships — both at home and abroad — while still enjoying the perks of a New Zealand passport and citizenship, alongside significant investment and aid.

However, there are a few conditions. According to a long-standing agreement, both nations must collaborate and consult on defense and security issues, and keep each other informed about any risks.

The Cook Islands’ recent move toward China has raised some concerns. The surprise decision, seen as a win for Beijing, has certainly caught Wellington’s attention. Prime Minister Mark Brown is heading to China with a delegation on Friday and is expected to sign the agreement in Beijing.

On One News on Wednesday Brown said: “We must explore different ways to ensure we have a sustainable economy and partner with like-minded countries. In this regard, it’s going to be crucial for us to maintain our prosperity levels.”

But New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters said there was no clarity about what was being agreed.

“The Cook Islands is entitled to make those decisions themselves,” Peters said. “But we’ve got past arrangements, constitutional arrangements, which require consultation with us and, dare I say, China knows that.

“So if there’s to be a change, then let us put our cards on the table so we all know what we’ve required to do, and we all know what we’re dealing with.”