US seeks to expand ties with New Zealand amid China fears

Admiral John Aquilino, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command in Wellington, New Zealand (New Zealand Herals/AP/PA)

The commander of the United States military in the Pacific has said he wants to expand and strengthen its ties with New Zealand.

The visit to Wellington by Admiral John Aquilino, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, comes as the US is looking to increase its presence in the region amid concerns over China’s growing ambitions in the Pacific.