NZ defence minister pledges more deployments, co-operation

The USS Blue Ridge, the command ship of the US Pacific Fleet, visited Wellington earlier this month and further visits from partners could be expected, Collins said. The ship was just the third US warship to visit in 40 years.

When asked about Chinese concerns at New Zealand's more assertive military posture, she said Beijing realised Wellington had, "actually got a spine," but, "I don't think China stays awake at night worrying about us."

"I don't think we're any threat to China, or anyone else really," Collins said, describing relations with China, an important trading partner, as "very mature".