NZ to contribute $700,000 to Fiji election

New Zealand will contribute about $700,000 towards the cost of the Fiji general election in August.

Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff said New Zealand will provide technical assistance including software for an election management package for Fiji's Office of the Supervisor of Elections.

The New Zealand electoral office will give advice to help operate the package.

New Zealand will also provide a consultant who is familiar with policy issues relating to the running of elections. The consultant and a staff member from the electoral office will travel to Fiji next week.

The assistance will be funded out of the existing Official Development Aid budget.

Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff said the package would help ensure that the election is free and fair.

"It is essential that the election is properly conducted to ensure that Fiji once again has a constitutional government with a clear mandate from the people.

Mr Goff said Australia and other countries are also supporting the election. Election monitors from the international community may also be involved.