The Defence Minister says New Zealand will think carefully about joining the recently signed defence alliance between Fiji and Australia.

The Ocean of Peace Alliance was signed by the leaders of Australia and Fiji last week, but concerns have been raised over how it could impact our relationship with China. 

Minister Chris Penk says working together is important for all Pacific nations and there's a potential role for New Zealand in there. 

"We'll consider carefully the obligations under that - at the moment, it's just between Australia and Fiji, and we congratulate them for working together on matters of regional security." 

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