20 Jun 2009

Spain's King and Queen visit NZ

3:28 pm on 20 June 2009

The King and Queen of Spain begin a four day official visit to New Zealand on Saturday.

King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia are being accompanied by Spain's Foreign Minister, its Secretary of State for Trade, and other high-level officials.

The royal couple will visit Auckland and Wellington for three days. Their itinerary includes the official opening of the Spanish Embassy in Wellington.

Prime Minister John Key says the visit is a unique opportunity to introduce New Zealand to people at the highest level in Spain, which could lead to increased trade, investment, and tourism.

He says both countries also want to expand education, science and technology and cultural links.