New Zealand has rejected a proposal by the Cook Islands to introduce a separate passport for its citizens while retaining New Zealand citizenship. Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown had advocated for the measure “to recognise our own people,” but New Zealand clarified that such a move would only be possible if the Cook Islands pursued full independence.

The Cook Islands, a self-governing Pacific nation, operates under a “free association” arrangement with New Zealand, which manages its foreign affairs and defence. Cook Islanders enjoy New Zealand citizenship, granting them the right to live, work, and access healthcare in New Zealand.

Approximately 100,000 Cook Islanders reside in New Zealand, while only around 15,000 live in the Cook Islands. Cook Islanders living in New Zealand for at least one year are eligible to vote in New Zealand’s elections and referendums.

Prime Minister Brown has reportedly been advocating for a distinct Cook Islands passport and citizenship for several months while seeking to maintain the Cook Islands’ status as a realm country of New Zealand. However, the proposal has stirred criticism within the Cook Islands, with some citizens accusing their government of insufficient consultation on the matter.

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters ended the debate on Sunday, stating that separate passports and citizenship are only granted to fully independent and sovereign nations. He emphasised that any change in the relationship between New Zealand and the Cook Islands would require a referendum.

“Such a referendum would allow the Cook Islands people to carefully weigh up whether they prefer the status quo, with their access to New Zealand citizenship and passports, or full independence,” Peters said in a statement. “If the goal of the government of the Cook Islands is independence from New Zealand, then of course that’s a conversation we are ready for them to initiate.”

The Cook Islands’ arrangement with New Zealand mirrors similar relationships worldwide. Niue, another self-governing Pacific territory, also relies on New Zealand for defence and foreign affairs. Greenland and the Faroe Islands operate under the Kingdom of Denmark, while Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory with autonomy in internal matters but reliant on Washington for defence and international relations.

For now, the Cook Islands must weigh the benefits of New Zealand citizenship against the aspirations for a distinct national identity, leaving the path forward to its people and leaders.