The first trans-Tasman 'Cabinet' meeting is to be held in Sydney this week.
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key leaves for Australia on Tuesday where he will hold talks with Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd.
Seven ministers from New Zealand and about the same number from Australia will gather for a formal meeting on Friday.
Mr Key says there will be an open discussion about issues relevant to both countries, after which a communique setting out a joint work programme will be released.
He will also confirm details about changes to trans-Tasman travel and reciprocal investment rules.
Mr Key says New Zealanders will still require a passport to travel to Australia and pay departure tax when they leave. However, on arrival the entry process at the airport will be faster.
