NZ team to watch Fiji vote

The Government is sending 10 observers to monitor the Fijian elections, which start on Saturday.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters said yesterday that the New Zealand observers would join others from Australia, Pacific nations, the European Union and the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Fiji's Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase had invited them. The elections continue until May 13.

New Zealand was contributing $5.44 million towards a support package provided by New Zealand and Australia.

MPs Marian Hobbs and Doug Woolerton would be part of the New Zealand team, which also included academics and representatives from Government agencies and non-government organisations.

- NZPA