New Zealand has rejected a proposal from the Cook Islands to introduce a separate passport for its citizens while maintaining their New Zealand citizenship. The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation in the Pacific, maintains a "free association" with New Zealand, which oversees its foreign affairs and defense. As a result, Cook Islanders have the right to live, work, and access healthcare in New Zealand.

Prime Minister Mark Brown had called for Cook Islanders to have their own passports in order to recognize their identity, but New Zealand's government stated that this would only be possible if the Cook Islands became fully independent.

Documents released to 1News and seen by Reuters reveal that Brown has been advocating for separate passports and citizenship for Cook Islanders, while wishing to preserve the current relationship with New Zealand. Approximately 100,000 Cook Islanders live in New Zealand, compared to just 15,000 on the islands. Those residing in New Zealand for at least a year can participate in the country’s elections and referendums.

Tensions between the two countries have risen over the issue, with both sides holding multiple discussions in recent months. In November, Brown argued that Cook Islanders should be able to hold dual passports, similar to New Zealand citizens who carry passports from other nations. However, some residents have criticized the lack of consultation on the matter, questioning whether the proposal reflects the will of the people or is being decided by a few.

Concerns have also been raised that separate passports could jeopardize access to essential services, including healthcare in New Zealand. On Sunday, New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, effectively closed the matter, stating that separate citizenship and passports are only available to fully independent nations. Any change in the relationship would require a referendum, allowing the Cook Islands’ people to decide whether they want to maintain the current system with access to New Zealand citizenship or pursue full independence.

Peters added that if the Cook Islands aims for independence, New Zealand would be open to discussions. In response, Prime Minister Brown affirmed that the Cook Islands would not take any action that would harm its important status with New Zealand.

A similar relationship exists between New Zealand and Niue, another self-governing Pacific island that relies on New Zealand for defense and foreign affairs. Other self-governing territories, like Greenland and Puerto Rico, share comparable arrangements with Denmark and the United States, respectively.