International relationsFive Eyes glare at New Zealand over independent China stance
Ardern and Mahuta walk fine line amid pressure to speak out on human rights
New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta speaks to reporters on April 22. She has caused a stir by confirming a reluctance to participate in Five Eyes joint statements on human rights. © Getty Images
ELIZABETH BEATTIE, Contributing writer
HONG KONG -- New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta jolted her country's Five Eyes intelligence allies last week when she stressed a preference for a more independent stance on relations with China. And despite an international backlash and assurances from the prime minister that Wellington is committed to the spy network, Mahuta doubled down over the weekend.