New Zealand PM seeking to shore up post-Brexit links with EU, Britain

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key will travel to Europe later this week in a bid to strengthen ties with both the European Union and Britain following last week's Brexit vote.

Key said Monday he would travel to Italy to meet with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi in Rome before heading to Paris where he will meet with French President Francois Hollande and Prime Minister Manuel Valls.

"Italy and France are important trading partners to New Zealand and important members of the European Union," Key said in a statement.

"I am looking forward to discussing how we can further strengthen those relationships in light of Britain's decision to leave the European Union. We will also discuss a wide range of other issues including the global economy and counter terrorism."

Prior to visiting Rome and Paris, Key would have an informal meeting with British Prime Minister David Cameron in London.

Meetings in Brussels might also take place if the necessary arrangements could be made.

"New Zealand has strong relationships with both the EU and the UK, and it is important that we reinforce both relationships now that Britain's referendum decision has been made," said Key.

From Paris, Key would travel to Indonesia for a two-day visit aimed at boosting New Zealand's economic and political links.

"I am looking forward to meeting with President Joko Widodo and discussing a number of areas where we have common links including in business, education and renewable energy," said Key.

"Indonesia is an important regional partner for New Zealand and a key player in Asia-Pacific. It is New Zealand's 13th largest two-way trade partner and we see huge potential to build that relationship further."

Key would be accompanied in Indonesia by Trade Minister Todd McClay and a senior New Zealand business delegation. Endit