On February 7, 2024, New Zealand’s Defence Minister Judith Collins announced that Australian officials had been asked to work with New Zealand officials to examine opportunities available under AUKUS Pillar II, the technology-sharing component of the trilateral Australia-UK-US security partnership. Pillar II covers collaboration on advanced technologies including quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, cyber, hypersonics, and electronic warfare.
According to Breaking Defense, there were no indications New Zealand would join Pillar I (nuclear-powered submarines), but the ministers discussed Pillar II briefings. New Zealand officials subsequently identified quantum technology as one of six areas where the country could contribute if it joined Pillar II, according to ministerial briefings reported later in 2024.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said in May 2024 that New Zealand was “a long way from being able to make such a decision” on AUKUS membership, while acknowledging the government was learning more about what participation would entail. In June 2024, the Defence Minister said the government was investigating opportunities for potential involvement, with any decisions to be a matter for cabinet and existing AUKUS members.