New Zealand naval ships pass through Taiwan Strait

Two New Zealand naval vessels passed through the Taiwan Strait last week on their way to a joint exercise with the Philippines, the New Zealand Defence Force said Tuesday.

The Anzac-class frigate HMNZS Te Mana and the sustainment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa transited the strait on September 18.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Monday that the navy completed a routine transit. He told reporters it was safe and conducted in international waters under international law.

China says Taiwan is part of its territory and claims jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait, a major international shipping route. New Zealand, the United States, Australia and other countries view the strait as international waters open to all vessels.

New Zealand ships also transited the Taiwan Strait in November 2025.