NZ is among the world's top three countries for its humanitarian response to international crises, an aid watchdog says.

No diplomatic cables have been released so far which would be as embarrassing for NZ as for Australia.

Comments made about China's dominance in Asia by Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd could prove embarrassing to Canberra.

John Key says leaked cables from the US Embassy in Wellington, which form part of this week's massive Wikileaks release, "could cause some embarrassment".

Democracy is getting a fighting chance in Tonga writes Audrey Young.

New Zealand is adding its voice to international outrage over North Korea's artillery attack on South Korea's Yeonpyeong Island.

Full-blown military exercises between the US and NZ could begin within a year, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says.

Diplomatic "rockstar" Hillary Clinton is winging her way to Australia after being farewelled from Christchurch by Mayor Bob Parker and NZ ambassador to the US Mike Moore.

The declaration is so light on where the NZ-US relationship goes from here that it could have floated out of the Beehive on hot air.

Scallops, whitebait fritters and pavlova - the spread for one of the world's most powerful women.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton acknowledged last night that the Wellington Declaration she signed with NZ was effectively a document of symbolism rather than substance.

Hillary Clinton was effusive in her praise for NZ after signing a deal bringing the countries closer together today.

Hillary Clinton's 60-strong entourage pales in comparison to some statesmen.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton braved the cold and blustery Wellington weather in an unscheduled walk along the waterfront.