New Zealand's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murray Mccully, says talks of Fiji moving towards a new constitution is a step in the right direction.
On Friday, the military regime announced the process of consultations towards a new constitution before elections expected in 2014.
It will replace the 1997 constitution which the regime abolished three years ago when the appeal court ruled that Frank Bainimarama's post-coup interim government was illegal.
Murray Mccully welcomes the announcement, adding New Zealand and Australia have always made it clear they want to see steps towards a fair and free elections.
He says this is a good step but the value of it will be assesed as the consultation occurs.
"And I think we should be opened minded about this as it plays out and New Zealand and Australia will keep talking and be open minded about the steps being taken."