6 May 2021

Escalating tensions between Australia and China raise question for NZ

From Morning Report, 7:23 am on 6 May 2021

Rising tensions between Australia and China have raised the question of where New Zealand would stand if things escalate further.

Close trans-Tasman friend and ally, Australia is taking a more aggressive stance against China - with South China Sea and Taiwan potential flashpoints.

Recent statements from its Defence Minister about a possible conflict with China have caused some alarm - a prospect that could put New Zealand under real pressure - to pick a side.

Political editor Jane Patterson has the story.