New Zealand is boosting its foreign aid budget by almost a third as part of a “Pacific Reset” strategy aimed at bolstering its engagement in a region where western powers are wary about growing Chinese influence.
The announcement of an extra NZ$714m ($493m) in aid funding over four years was made in the first budget delivered on Thursday by the government of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, which prioritised spending on health, education and tackling homelessness.
“We are committed to our role as a leader in the Pacific and to supporting our region to meet the challenges of climate change and enjoy sustainable economic development,” said Grant Robertson, New Zealand’s minister for finance.