New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has congratulated Tony Abbott on his victory in the Australian election.
Mr Key said he looks forward to working with Mr Abbott to build on New Zealand's close and unique relationship with Australia.
He said he plans to speak to Mr Abbott on Sunday, after passing on his congratulations by text on Saturday night.
Mr Key said there will be several opportunities over the next few months to speak to Mr Abbott about how the two countries can continue to work together.
"Australia is our most important relationship,'' he said. ''Our common interests span trade, economic, defence and security matters and we cooperate closely in our region and on the international stage.''
The two countries will commemorate the centenary of World War I and the Gallipoli landings and will also jointly host the Cricket World Cup in 2015.
Mr Key also thanked outgoing ALP prime minister Kevin Rudd and his predecessor Julia Gillard.
''They have both been instrumental in ensuring the relationship between our two countries continues to grow from strength to strength. I look forward to this continuing during Tony Abbott's prime ministership," he said.
