Just hanging with the Obamas: John and Bronagh Key get close to presidential couple

Barack and Michelle Obama greet John and Bronagh Key at a United Nations General Assembly reception. Photo / Flickr

Prime Minister John Key says he is still hopeful US President Barack Obama will visit New Zealand, saying there is no doubt Obama is keen but his people might not be.

Mr Key and wife Bronagh managed to secure a photo with Barack and Michelle Obama during a cocktail party the Obamas hosted in New York for leaders attending the UN General Assembly.

Mr Key later admitted he felt "pretty short" posing next to the First Lady.

The Keys are dwarfed by the more statuesque Obamas - something that did not escape Mr Key's attention.

"Gee, I don't want to say it but Michelle Obama's tall isn't she? She makes me look pretty short, let alone poor little Bronagh."

He said it was nice to catch up with the Obamas although he had not had much time to talk with them beyond pleasantries. There was still no news on whether Barack Obama will visit New Zealand before his presidency ends next year.

He said there might be an opportunity, "but we acknowledge that it's a heavy date card and we've got to force our way into that."

Mr Obama has previously voiced enthusiasm for the idea and Mr Key said he was still keen but that did not mean a visit would happen.

"He would love to come. I don't think the issue is convincing the President, I think the issue is convincing the President's people that it's a good use of his time. Will he come? You wouldn't bet the ranch on it, but equally you wouldn't say it was impossible."