How about this one then? https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/05/31/discussion-on-nzs-anti-nuclear-stance-could-be-helpful-penk/

At the same security forum yesterday, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said New Zealand is “freeloading” off the American military due to its low level of military spending.

[Chris] Penk also responded to these comments.

“New Zealand is not a freeloader, and I think the context of [Hegseth’s] remarks are really important.

“Historically, we’ve invested at a lower level than many of our friends and partners and allies but he important thing to note is that we are increasing.”

There we go with the "context" thing again - I don't get what "context" was missing, Peter wants us to spend 3.5% of our national spending on defense. The "freeloading" comment wasn't helpful either.

Thank God he's only in the role for another 2-and-a-bit years. Absolutely ridiculous.