As for criticism of her leadership in the Pacific while China is pushing into our sphere, I think her Royal ties with the other Pacific Royal Families will provide a unique entry point China can’t access. I think two ways NZ could uniquely promote its interests into the Pacific against China could be via Rugby Diplomacy and Journalism. AUT run the excellent Pacific Media Centre to promote quality Journalism throughout the Pacific. Rugby diplomacy and promotion of Journalistic standards throughout the Pacific could counter China and promote NZs strategic interests. We can’t outspend China, but we can play a far smarter game and I believe Nanaia is part of that smarter game.

Source: New Zealand Herald May 30, 2022 17:04 UTC