The New Zealand cabinet is expected this morning to formally approve the government's plan to send a contingent of 140 New Zealanders to help restore law and order in the Solomon Islands.
The Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff has already confirmed 35 police officers and 105 defence force personnel will head to the troubled nation within six weeks.
His office says today's meeting is the last in a series of approvals by ministers for financing and supporting the mission.
The military contingent includes four helicopters and 65 associated personnel, as well as logistics, communications, engineering and medical staff.
Australia, which will lead the 15 hundred strong force is expected to approve the force's deployment at a meeting of the Cabinet national security committee in Canberra on Tuesday.
That meeting will also determine the rules of engagement which stipulate under what circumstances police and troops may open fire.
