General James Cartwright Vice Chairman of the United States of America Joint Chiefs of Staff is currently visiting New Zealand in what news media are describing as a very positive trip.

General Cartwright spoke with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, New Zealand Defence Minister Wayne Mapp and New Zealand Defence Chiefs in Wellington.

It is the first time New Zealand has held talks with such a senior member of the United Stated military since the 1980s.

Mr Key said his visit was "testimony to what great shape we're in with the Americans".

To read an article on the talk by Audrey Young of the New Zealand Herald, click here.