It is a potentially significant shift in New Zealand's defence policy.

Fiji, which had grown closer to Beijing under its former leadership, will now consult Canberra on security developments.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the formation of a new defence alliance with Fiji has elevated relations to the “highest possible level”.

New Zealand may join a new defence alliance between Australia and Fiji. This treaty, the Ocean of Peace Alliance, was signed earlier this week. The agreement allows other Pacific…