WELLINGTON, June 1 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's new High Commissioner to Australia will be senior diplomat John Larkindale, Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced Thursday.

    Peters said New Zealand's relationship with Australia is the "most important and enduring."

    He said the two countries are committed to consolidating and enhancing the relationship. In the economic area, both governments are moving towards a Single Economic Market with the goal of a seamless business environment.

    "There is strong political support for the relationship in both countries. There is extensive contact between the two Prime Ministers, including in an annual dedicated meeting, and between Ministers on both sides of the Tasman," said Peters.

    John Larkindale is currently a deputy secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He was previously New Zealand's Ambassador to the Russian Federation, and his earlier postings were London, Beijing, Apia, Washington and Vienna.

    He replaces Kate Lackey, and takes up his appointment later this year, Peters said. Enditem