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New Zealand has set up a website as part of its drive to be elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council.
The first nation from the Pacific region to stand, New Zealand is hoping to be elected next year to the 47-seat council for the 2009-2012 term.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said the campaign website www.votenz4hrc.org provided information about the bid and about NewZealand's efforts to improve human rights.
"We are a credible and committed candidate for election to the UN Human Rights Council in May 2009," Mr Peters said.
New Zealand, which played a role in setting up the council, is being supported by Canada and Australia.
"We have a long history of ground-breaking legislation that advances human rights, such as being the first country to give women the right to vote."
Mr Peters said New Zealand worked to help Pacific Island countries with human rights issues.
"Last month New Zealand's work to improve the rights of people with disabilities both domestically and internationally was recognised through the Franklin Delano Roosevelt International Disability Award."
- NZPA
