New Zealand troops have been given the go-ahead to begin training for a likely deployment to Iraq.
Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee said the training would take place at Linton and Waiouru.
The work of the 10 military planners assessing a role of New Zealand to fight ISIS in Iraq was not completed, he had agreed to a request by the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Tim Keating, to begin specific training for what Mr Brownlee called a "Building Partners Capacity" role in Iraq.
"this does not pre-empt any cabinet decisions," Mr Brownlee said "but is prudent given defence officials are close to providing final advice on a possible mission."
Contingency training would cover areas such as force protection, cultural awareness and skills relevant to a possible deployment.
Prime Minister John Key said yesterday that a decision could be as close as the last week in February - which is when Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott is due in New Zealand for scheduled bilateral talks.
New Zealand has been asked by Australia to contribute 100 troops to work alongside Australia to train Iraqi troops to fight ISIS on the ground.