Trade delegation Washington-bound

One of the most powerful New Zealand trade delegations to visit the United States since the death of ANZUS is on its way to Washington.

It is led by former prime ministers Jim Bolger and Mike Moore and is made up of 36 leading lights in business and tourism.

Trade Minister Phil Goff is leading the Government team and says a free trade agreement is always a priority. He says the nuclear issue is of course a sticking point between the two countries but has to be put into perspective. Mr Goff says it is not an issue that should be a prism through which the whole of the US-New Zealand relationship is gauged.

Mr Goff says the team will not be returning with any trophies but at least dialogue will be on another plane.

National Party leader Don Brash is already in Washington visiting top Bush administration officials and will address a meeting of the group on Saturday.

- NEWSTALK ZB