New Zealand resumes maritime patrols over Niue, Cook Islands

A Royal New Zealand Air Force Orion P-3K2 maritime patrol aircraft, similar to the one that is resuming patrols over Niue and the Cook Islands. (New Zealand Defence Force)

New Zealand is resuming maritime patrols over the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of Niue and the Cook Islands, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) said in a statement on 24 June.

The patrols will be carried out by a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-3K2 Orion aircraft, which will make overnight logistics stops in the Cook Islands, said the force.

“RNZAF crew routinely carry out aerial patrols in co-ordination with maritime patrols by host nations”, said the NZDF in its statement. However, due to travel and border restrictions put in place as part of the response to the global Covid-19 pandemic, the frequency of patrols reduced and there are concerns illegal activity may be going undetected”, the force added.