Prime Minister John Key says he's been "pretty blunt" with the Australian government over the way Kiwis are being detained and deported..

The Soap Box: Detention law a disgrace

Mr Key met Foreign Minister Julie Bishop in New York to raise the issue that's causing increasing concern across the Tasman.

Nearly 200 New Zealanders are being held in detention centres in Australia facing deportation under new immigration laws that mean anyone who isn't a citizen and who has served a sentence of 12 months or more can be sent home.

It's been reported that nearly 100 have already been sent back to New Zealand.

However United Future leader - and government support partner - Peter Dunne said the government must be much more forceful in tackling the issue, describing New Zealand's response as inadequate and subservient.

Dunne pointed out the Australian stance is part of a wider foreign policy that lacks commitment to human rights.

In recent years our foreign policy has become too craven and trade-focussed and lacking a moral compass, Dunne said