What is New Zealand's nuclear-free policy?

New Zealand's nuclear-free policy is set out in the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act 1987. It bans nuclear-armed and nuclear-powered ships from entering New Zealand's internal waters.

Has the Government said New Zealand's nuclear-free policy will change?

1News reported that Christopher Luxon's office said New Zealand's nuclear-free policy would not change, but Labour argues ministers should not be entertaining debate that creates expectations overseas.

When did New Zealand become nuclear-free?

New Zealand's nuclear-free policy was cemented in law when the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act received Royal assent on 8 June 1987.

National Reopens NZ Nuclear-Free Policy Debate

Q: Why is Labour criticising National over nuclear-free policy?

Labour says National ministers are reopening debate about nuclear technology and signalling to international partners that New Zealand may reconsider a policy that has long defined the country's independent foreign policy.

ByThe Daily Blog 1 June 20266 June 2026

The Government looks set to entertain a debate about nuclear technology when New Zealand’s nuclear-free policy is one of our proudest achievements.

“Four decades ago New Zealand made a clear choice. We wrote into law that nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed vessels would not enter our waters. That policy has served New Zealand well and remains a defining part of who we are as a nation,” Labour leader Chris Hipkins said.

“Labour stands firmly behind New Zealand’s nuclear-free policy and sees no reason to reopen a debate that New Zealanders settled generations ago.

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New Zealand’s nuclear-free policy is not up for sale

“Nuclear propulsion carries significant risks, including radiation exposure, accidental radioactive releases, the challenge of managing long-lived radioactive waste, and broader concerns about escalating geopolitical tensions.

“It is particularly concerning that Government Ministers are signalling to international partners that New Zealand may be willing to reconsider its position. That is a departure from the independent and consistent foreign policy New Zealand has long been respected for.

“Once you start hinting that our nuclear-free policy is up for negotiation, you create expectations overseas. If those expectations aren’t met, New Zealand risks unnecessary diplomatic pressure and frustration from international actors.

“At a time when New Zealanders are struggling with the cost of living, rising unemployment, and economic uncertainty, the Government should be focused on the issues affecting people’s daily lives.

“Families aren’t lying awake at night wondering whether New Zealand should abandon its nuclear-free status. They’re worried about paying the mortgage, affording groceries, and keeping their jobs.

“If the National Government wants to start a conversation about nuclear issues when New Zealand is proudly nuclear-free, they’ve got another thing coming.

“Our nuclear-free policy reflects New Zealand values. It has broad public support and it is not up for sale,” Chris Hipkins said.