18003 (2026). Vanushi Walters to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

18003 (2026). Vanushi Walters to the Minister of Foreign Affairs: Has the Government sought or received any assurances from the United States Government that New Zealand citizens with valid immigration documentation — including green cards and work permits — will not be subjected to arbitrary or prolonged detention without being informed of the grounds for their detention?

Rt Hon Winston Peters: No. As is the case in New Zealand, operational immigration processes are the purview of the competent border authority of the country concerned. If a New Zealander was detained overseas without being informed of the grounds for their detention, New Zealand consular officials could seek to clarify the grounds for detention on behalf of the New Zealander, if consular assistance was requested.