John Key congratulates Obama

Prime Minister John Key has issued a statement tonight congratulating US President Barack Obama on winning re-election.

"I will be sending President Obama a letter of congratulations tomorrow, and will also relay them in person when I see him at the East Asian Summit in Phnom Penh later this month," Key said in his statement.

"The relationship between our two countries is an enduring and close one, and I look forward to developing it further.

"With President Obama's re-election, there will be many opportunities to enhance the relationship, which is built on shared values, and a commitment to improve the prosperity and well-being of our people through initiatives such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

"I have enjoyed working with President Obama during his first term as President and welcome the opportunity to continue our strategic partnership over the coming years."