18968 (2026). Vanushi Walters to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Written Question

Published date: 25 May 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	18968 (2026)
Question asked:	11 May 2026
Member asking:	Vanushi Walters
Portfolio:	Minister of Foreign Affairs
Minister replying:	Rt Hon Winston Peters
Answer received:	19 May 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_18968_2026
Document guid:	fb3e2b49-ee66-4fc2-a3de-6aff4667ec5d

18968 (2026). Vanushi Walters to the Minister of Foreign Affairs: What specific consular assistance, if any, has MFAT or the New Zealand Consulate provided to Everlee Wihongi since her detention, and on what dates did that assistance occur?

Rt Hon Winston Peters: Consular Officials have been in regular contact with the New Zealand citizen and their family. While we cannot comment on the specifics of individual consular cases, the type of support available in these situations includes ensuring that New Zealanders have access to legal representation, advising family, and engaging with local authorities and detention facilities. Further information on how consular cases are supported can be found via the SafeTravel website: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/while-you-are-away/when-things-go-wrong/you-have-been-arrested-or-jailed