7 May 2024
Michael Riconosciuto
[FYI request #26438 email]
Ref: PMO OIA 217-2023-24
Dear Michael
Official Information Act request: Cost of Southeast Asia trip
Thank you for your Official Information Act 1982 (the Act) request, received on 15 April 2024.
You requested:
“Under the OIA, I request the cost of your travel to Singapore, Thailand and the
Phillipines. This should include the costs of the Prime Ministerial party and the
business delegation.
In addition to the total cost(s), please include a breakdown for the following categories:
flights, accommodation, transport, events, hospitality.”
At this time, the costs relating to the trip have not been processed with some costs yet to be
advised. Accordingly, we are refusing to provide the cost of the trip as this information does
not exist. This decision has been made under section 18(e) of the Act.
During the trip the Prime Minister travelled on a Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft.
Regarding the purpose of the trip the Prime Minister has said, “
Southeast Asia is a region
that is more crucial than ever to our prosperity and our security. I look forward to meeting my
counterparts and seeing firsthand what more we can do to deepen our relationships. I’m also
pleased to be leading New Zealand businesses into the region.
Building new connections and renewing relationships with partners and customers in these
important markets is a priority.”
The Prime Minister also said,
“Continuing to foster our global relationships can only benefit
the New Zealand economy and I intend to pursue these relationships in Southeast Asia and
around the world. This government is determined to deliver on our plan to rebuild the
economy so Kiwis can get ahead again and strengthening our trade and business
connections with the world is an important part of that.” You have the right to ask the Ombudsman to investigate and review my decision under
section 28(3) of the Act.
Yours sincerely
Cameron Burrows
Chief of Staff
