4 Jan 2014

Leaders strengthen ties on golf course

7:05 am on 4 January 2014

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key and US President Barack Obama have interrupted their holidays for a meeting on a Hawaii golf course which the White House says reaffirms work under way to deepen trade relationships.

Barack Obama and John Key at the Kaneohe Klipper Golf course.

Barack Obama and John Key at the Kaneohe Klipper Golf course. Photo: AFP

The US Consulate General in Auckland released information about the meeting on Wednesday on behalf of the White House.

It says the leaders have long discussed their shared interest in the sport, and they enjoyed the opportunity to spend several hours together on the golf course.

The White House said Mr Obama and Mr Key have developed a close partnership, which reflects the friendship and broad cooperation between the United States and New Zealand.

It said while they are enjoying some time off with their families and friends, they also reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing regional security.