United States attorney-general Eric Holder says the relationship between New Zealand and the United States is the best it has been for 30 years.
Mr Holder, who is in New Zealand for a conference of attorneys-general, is the fourth high-ranking member of President Barack Obama's administration to visit this country.
He told Radio New Zealand's Morning Report programme that is a sign of the value the US places on its relationship with New Zealand.
Mr Holder said he expects more high-ranking officials to visit but does not know of any plans by Mr Obama to come.