The Labour Party's slating the government's refusal to recognise Palestinian statehood, saying it's morally reprehensible

In an address to the United Nations earlier today, Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters announced that New Zealand would not join more than 150 nations - including Australia and the UK - who've officially recognised Palestine.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins says no real justification's been given for the decision, and the coalition government can't seem to agree on foreign policy.

Mr Hipkins says it's beyond an embarassment, and is damaging international respect for New Zealand.