PNG army chief in NZ

6:46 am on 2 March 2015

The commander of Papua New Guinea's defence force, Brigadier Gilbert Toropo, is in New Zealand for a four-day visit.

Brigadier Toropo will be hosted by New Zealand's Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Tim Keating, who says the visit will help build and foster the partnership between the two countries.

Lieutenant General Keating says his force maintains a good working relationship with PNG, including exchanges and training for PNG troops.

Brigadier Toropo's visit, his first as defence commander, will include an official welcome ceremony at the National War Memorial, a call on the defence minister, and visits to various defence force facilities across the North Island.

Lieutenant-General Tim Keating.

Lieutenant-General Tim Keating. Photo: NZ Defence Force