Visit to NZ by top US official postponed after shooting

US Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano. Photo / AP

The fatal shooting of a United States immigration agent in Mexico has stopped a planned New Zealand visit from the US Secretary of Homeland Security.

Secretary Janet Napolitano was scheduled to attend the fourth US-NZ Partnership Forum from February 20-22 in Christchurch.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray McCully today said she had put off her trip due to commitments she had to meet after the US agent was shot.

He extended his sympathies and issued an open invitation for her to visit New Zealand in future.

"The New Zealand Government is already working closely with the US on issues such as counterterrorism and response to natural disasters. We are looking to do more together in the Pacific region, on border security and ensuring the smooth flow of trade between the US and New Zealand."

- NZ Herald staff