The Maori Party's calling for New Zealand to become the Switzerland of the Pacific

Co-leader Rawiri Waititi's pointing to the case of Kiwi fighter Kane Te Tai, reportedly killed in action in Ukraine, as reasons for New Zealand to declare itself militarily neutral.

In a Facebook post, Waititi says Te Pati Maori does not support New Zealand's involvement in the war -- that's despite New Zealand's involvement being mainly humanitarian aid and support roles.

He says New Zealand must no longer have its sovereignty determined by others, whether it's Washington, Canberra, Beijing or Moscow.