The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is talking up the significance of the country's future relationship with Asia.

It has highlighted the importance of the issue in its just released strategic intentions report.

Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade Brook Barrington is calling the Asia-Pacific region a fulcrum for New Zealand.

He said as global wealth and power shifts to East Asia, it's becoming a part of the world where our economic and security interests require the most accurate calibration.

Mr Barrington believes it is where we must be a trusted participant and not a spectator.

The report also says MFAT wants Pacific Island countries' policies to reflect our values and strategic interests, and for their decisions to also align with our interests.

MFAT wants New Zealand seen as a partner of first choice for Pacific Island nations.

Other targets include ensuring Pacific nations are well governed and stable, as well as better prosperity and development outcomes for their peoples.