Formal planning is underway for increased military training with units in the United States.
Military training between the two nations became strained after the collapse of the ANZUS treaty.
The move comes as two New Zealand Navy ships return to Auckland from a visit that included the United States - the first time Navy vessels have docked in mainland American ports in 25 years.
Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says the visit was significant and a testament to improving relations.
He says training opportunities are, at present, limited to things such as sending individual officers on courses.
