Foreign Minister Phil Goff is to go to French Polynesia on Sunday for an informal forum with French President Jacques Chirac, then go on to the Solomon Islands.
Informal France-Oceania meetings in Papeete would see regional leaders discuss security, good governance, sustainable development and regional co-operation, Mr Goff said.
The trip reflected the importance New Zealand placed on its relationship with France, Europe and the Pacific, he said.
"France remains a major player in the Pacific region and President Chirac's visit to our part of the world offers a rare and valuable opportunity to engage directly with him on a broad range of regional concerns," he said.
New Zealand worked with France on Pacific emergency and disaster relief, and the countries co-operate as aid donors.
"This trip is also an opportunity to strengthen relations with French Polynesia as France evolves greater responsibility to the territory," he said.
The Papeete meetings would complement next month's Pacific Islands leaders forum in Auckland.
Mr Goff would talk to leaders about issues that could be given priority in Auckland.
He will leave French Polynesia on Wednesday (New Zealand time), for the Solomons, where New Zealand troops and police are helping restore law and order as part of Operation Helpem Fren.
Mr Goff and Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer will visit the Solomons for two days, as the Australian-led intervention force sets up there.
"We will be talking with Prime Minister (Allan) Kemakeza about the strengthened assistance package, and how we can work with the Solomon Islands government and people to ensure the success of the intervention."
He and Mr Downer would meet local representatives from non-government organisations, churches and women's groups.
"Naturally, we will also touch base with the New Zealand police and military personnel in Honiara to get a feel for how they see Operation Helpem Fren developing."
- NZPA
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