US Vice President Joe Biden to visit New Zealand next week

Joe Biden is due to touch down in Auckland next Wednesday. Photo / AP

US Vice President Joe Biden is visiting New Zealand next week.

Biden is due to touch down in Auckland next Wednesday, July 20. He will be here for a number of engagements the next day.

A statement from The White House said Biden will participate in "official engagements,'' including a meeting with Prime Minister John Key.

The second in command's trip to New Zealand will round off visits to Los Angeles, Honolulu and Australia.

He is due to travel to Sydney and Melbourne, where he will deliver a major policy speech on the future of the US-Australian relationship. He will also meet with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

A statement from Key's office tonight welcomed Biden's trip down-under.

"New Zealand places great value on its relationship with the United States and the Vice President's visit is an opportunity to discuss key regional and international issues.

"Vice President Biden's visit will allow us to discuss ways we can work closer together on issues like economic and trade ties, as well as international peace and security matters."