Environment Minister Nick Smith says agencies in Italy working on the Costa Concordia disaster have been in contact for advice following this country's experience with the Rena grounding.
The Italian cruise liner sank off the Tuscan coast earlier this month.
Dr Smith says how this country responded to the Rena grounding is being recognised overseas.
"I have had contact from agencies in Europe who are openly impressed at the response to the Rena disaster, and sought advice about some of the steps that have been taken, particularly around both the oil spill and the wildlife recovery effort."
Dr Smith says the information will help the Italians deal with what is ahead for them when the recovery operation starts on the cruise liner.
