Bill English takes congratulatory phone call from UK Prime Minister Theresa May

Prime Minister Bill English. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Prime Minister Bill English received a congratulatory phone call from his British counterpart Theresa May last night.

English said today that the call went well, with the United Kingdom Prime Minister passing on her regards for how New Zealand had helped British nationals caught up in the aftermath of the Kaikoura earthquake.

"She was particularly grateful for the way the British nationals were dealt with, who were caught up in the Kaikoura earthquake. So I was quite impressed that she knew about it, actually."

English's predecessor John Key visited the United Kingdom in July, as May was announced as the next Conservative Party leader and incoming Prime Minister.

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May. Photo / AP

Issues on the agenda between the countries include the migration and visa rights of New Zealanders in the UK, and a trade deal after the Brexit referendum.

English said he had also talked to Australia's Malcom Turnbull since taking the reins from Key.

"I know Malcolm, I've met with him...I find him an insightful politician who, in his case, has a real respect for New Zealand and has helped our cause considerably with the Australian Government."