(File photo) An RNZAF C-130 Hercules in Bougainville, delivering aid supplies, in 2023. Photo: Supplied / NZDF
The New Zealand Defence Force and Bougainville appear to be at odds over whether a RNZ Air Force Hercules C-130J had permission to land in the autonomous region of Papua New Guinea.
The online news site Post-Courier said the Autonomous Bougainville Government claimed the landing of the C-130J on Thursday was unauthorised and had issued a strong condemnation.
A Defence Force spokesperson said all the required permissions to fly in PNG airspace were obtained, so that humanitarian aid could be delivered.
The New Zealanders were taking part in a multi-country operation organised and led by the PNG Defence Force.
The Post-Courier said Bougainville's Attorney General was declaring the incident a serious breach of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
Voters in the autonomous region of Bougainville went to the polls on Friday, after a one-day delay, to chose from seven candidates for the presidency. Counting is expected to begin on Tuesday.
The NZDF earlier said it had sent the Hercules C-130J, a Boeing B757, two NH90 helicopters and more than 40 personnel to participate in Papua New Guinea's celebrations of its 50th anniversary.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was also in the PNG capital of Port Moresby on Friday to mark 50 years of ties between PNG and New Zealand.
"As well as participating in the anniversary events, the Hercules and NH90 helicopters have been involved in a multinational air logistics support operation, transporting stores and equipment across the country and to outlying islands," the NZDF said.
"The Hercules has been delivering a range of medical, building and humanitarian supplies around Papua New Guinea, in support of the country's government and a range of non-governmental organisations."
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