British PM to visit NZ, Key confirms

Prime Minister David Cameron will visit New Zealand next week, Prime Minister John Key has confirmed. Photo / AP

Prime Minister John Key has confirmed his British counterpart David Cameron's visit to New Zealand next week.

Mr Cameron will visit New Zealand before attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth.

His programme will include a formal bilateral meeting with Mr Key, a short visit to Christchurch, and other events.

Mr Key said he was looking forward to having Mr Cameron in New Zealand for an important visit.

"The relationship between New Zealand and the United Kingdom is a very deep one - it is one of our oldest and closest," Mr Key said.

"We have strong ties between our people and businesses, and a shared outlook on international affairs. This visit will give us an opportunity to celebrate those historical ties and give momentum to the modern relationship which reaches far and wide."

Mr Key said he looked forward to discussing a wide range of regional and global issues with Mr Cameron, including the economic situation in Europe and around the world.