The new United States Ambassador, David Huebner, says the Obama administration wants to deepen and expand the US relationship with New Zealand.
Mr Huebner was sworn in as Ambassador by the US Vice President on Friday.
He presented his credentials to the Governor General in Wellington on Wednesday.
Mr Huebner says the United States recognises and respects New Zealand's contribution to the world on security and environmental matters, and the relationship between the two countries is excellent.
"I would describe it as extremely close and warm. Already the United States and New Zealand have stood shoulder by shoulder for decades. Currently the administration is very focused on finding ways to deepen and expand the relationship."
He also says he is not under instructions to ask New Zealand to commit more troops to Afghanistan.
Mr Huebner says the US recognises and respects New Zealand's contribution in Afghanistan, and it is up to New Zealand to decide the scope and magnitude of its commitment.
"On a per capita basis, New Zealand's commitment is extraordinary and substantial and no, I don't expect to be given instructions to try to alter that equation."
