A Defence Ministry report has clearly identified 'China's rise' and its power struggle with the United States as a major risk to security in the Indo-Pacific.
The 2021 Defence Assessment is blunt in its assessment that growing strategic competition is increasing the potential for confrontation and conflict.
It also warns of the threat posed by climate change, with the effects being felt "early and deeply" in the Pacific.
Defence Minister Peeni Henare spoke to Corin Dann.
