A top United States diplomat says New Zealand could eventually become a member of the AUKUS defence alliance, talking up this country's strategic importance at end of week-long tour around the Pacific.
US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern yesterday and described relations between the countries as "incredibly valuable".
Corin Dann asked her if defence ties could become closer given China's increased interest in the Pacific and, in particular, whether there was potential for New Zealand to join the AUKUS security pact between the US, UK and Australia.
