Faced with this reality and mounting public concern the New Zealand Government decided to demonstrate the strength of opposition to nuclear weapons in our country by implementing its own limited measure of arms control; the exclusion from our ports of vessels carrying nuclear weapons. This decision reflects New zealand's particular strategic circumstances. We are not part of any nuclear strategy. As a party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty we have foregone the possession of nuclear weapons. we have never accepted that nuclear weapons can be stationed or stored on our territory. The decision to exclude all nuclear ships from all countries from our ports reflects our determination not to have any country defend us with nuclear weapons. We do not seek to be a part of any calculation that involves the accumulation of these weapons. The Government's stand is fully consistent with New zealand's active membership of the western community -in the defence of which we have a proud and long-standing record. It is not a step towards isolationism or a retreat from our responsibility to provide for the defence of the region in which we live. The Government has, in fact, expanded New zealand's political, economic and defence activity in the region and is committed to playing an increasingly active role there. As Deputy Prime Minister Palmer told the General Assembly: "This new and strengthened regional approach should provide the basis for a continued, sound and stable relationship with Australia and the United States based on a clear definition of New Zealand's interests and a policy of self-reliance". (A/40/PV .?, p. 67) The Government also firmly believes that regional measures can play a part in the search for disarmament and arms control. Accordingly, we have given our support to the creation of a nuclear-free zone in the South Pacific. The Treaty 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the New Zealand Government's decision to exclude nuclear ships from its ports, which reflects the country's stance on nuclear weapons and its commitment to regional security and disarmament. The text highlights New Zealand's unique strategic circumstances, its membership in the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and its efforts to promote regional cooperation and security.

**Category**
International relations, Security