Should New Zealand lift its ban on nuclear-powered ships entering its ports?

Since 1987, New Zealand has been a nuclear-free zone, banning nuclear-armed and nuclear-powered ships, a policy that effectively suspended its ANZUS security obligations with the United States. While modern nuclear propulsion is statistically safe, the ban remains a defining pillar of Kiwi national identity and sovereignty. Proponents argue lifting it is crucial for reintegrating into western security alliances like AUKUS against rising threats in the Pacific. Opponents argue the ban is a moral victory that protects the environment and keeps New Zealand from being dragged into superpower conflicts.