Auckland (The NZ Today)
Despite growing conflicts and rising instability across the globe, New Zealand has strengthened its reputation as one of the safest places to live, climbing to second place in the 2026 Global Peace Index.
The latest report from the Institute for Economics and Peace found that global peace continued to deteriorate for the twelfth consecutive year, with conditions worsening in 99 countries. Yet New Zealand was among a handful of nations that maintained high levels of safety, social cohesion and stability.
Iceland retained the top position for the 19th straight year, while New Zealand moved up from third place in 2025 to second this year. Switzerland, Slovenia and Ireland rounded out the top five.
The Global Peace Index ranks 163 countries using 23 indicators, including levels of conflict, militarisation, homicide rates and perceptions of safety.
According to the report, New Zealand recorded the lowest score in the Asia-Pacific region for ongoing internal and external conflicts and remained one of the most peaceful countries in the world. A decline in arms imports was cited as one of the factors behind the country’s improved ranking.
*Top 10 Most Peaceful Countries In 2026*
1. Iceland
2. New Zealand
3. Switzerland
4. Slovenia
5. Ireland
6. Austria
7. Portugal
8. Singapore
9. Finland
10. Japan
Warwick Woodley, founder of NZ Golden Visa and a New Zealand citizen, said the country’s geographical isolation had helped shield it from many international tensions and conflicts.
He said New Zealanders generally had a peaceful outlook and preferred cooperation over confrontation, adding that safety was so deeply embedded in daily life that many people often took it for granted.
Woodley also pointed to tighter gun laws introduced after the Christchurch mosque attacks, saying they had helped strengthen public safety. Strong community connections and a culture where people look out for one another were also key factors behind New Zealand’s peaceful environment, he said.
Beyond security, he noted that New Zealand’s natural environment and relatively low population density contributed to a high quality of life. Easy access to mountains, beaches and native forests helped create a balanced and relaxed lifestyle.
At a time when wars, geopolitical tensions and security concerns are increasing in many parts of the world, New Zealand’s rise to second place in the Global Peace Index further reinforces its reputation as one of the safest and most peaceful countries on the planet.
