29 March 2006
Tony Blair held talks with PM Helen Clark this morning on the latest leg of his overseas tour.
The two leaders agreed to hold annual security talks and "step up" dialogue in areas such as pensions, employment and immigration.
Speaking to journalists afterwards, the PM said the two countries had a "good, strong" relationship. He went on:
"(I want to say) how important we find it to have New Zealand as a friend in this region that can help and advise us on the regional issues that are of immense importance."
He was asked about Iraq, trade and climate change.
The PM also congratulated Ehud Olmert on his likely victory in the Israeli general election.
Mr Blair, who is the first British PM to visit New Zealand for 50 years, also paid his respects at a war memorial, enjoyed a cruise on Auckland’s harbour, took a trip around a vinery and went on a "bush walk" at a school.
Earlier in the day he gave a major speech on climate change.
The PM said he was glad to be in such an "exciting and dynamic" country.
He will conclude his trip to the south Pacific region with a visit to Indonesia.
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