Dismay in New Zealand after government fails to recognise Palestinian statehood

PM Christopher Luxon had suggested recognition was only a matter of time, prompting disappointment from opposition parties and activists

Opposition parties, Palestinian groups and a former prime minister have expressed dismay over New Zealand's decision not to recognise Palestinian statehood, saying it places the country on the wrong side of history and puts it at odds with its traditional allies.

Last week, the UK, Canada, Australia and others formally declared their recognition of statehood ahead of a special UN conference in New York. As of this month, 157 of the 193 UN member countries have recognised a Palestinian state.