Two New Zealand naval ships transit Taiwan Strait

Two New Zealand naval vessels passed through the Taiwan Strait last week, the New Zealand Defence Force said Tuesday.

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.

The two ships, Anzac-class frigate HMNZS Te Mana and sustainment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa, passed through the strait on September 18 on their way to a joint exercise with the Philippines.

"The Royal New Zealand Navy has a long history of deployments in the region which includes passage along regular routes as ships sail between regional engagements," a Defence Force spokesman said.

"As part of its passage, the Task Group completed a transit of the Taiwan Strait."

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Monday the navy completed a "routine transit" of the Taiwan Strait.

"It was all safe, conducted in international waters as you would expect," Luxon told reporters, adding that it was conducted under international law and in international waters.

New Zealand ships also transited the strait in November 2025.

Tensions across the strait have worsened in recent years as China has increased military pressure on Taiwan and Taipei has ramped up its defence spending.