New Zealand Prime Minister John Key said Fiji is heading in the right direction.

Key told the New Zealand Herald regarding Fiji’s constitution, that on face value they accept that much of it is heading in the right direction.

Key said the immunity provision in Fiji’s 2013 constitution is not a “deal breaker” for New Zealand.

He said the constitutional pardon is a compromise which could be necessary to guarantee that Fiji hold fair and democratic elections next year.

Key who attends this week's Pacific Islands Forum in the Marshall Islands said New Zealand will discuss support for Fijian elections which is likely to come in the form of funding, security and observers.

He said New Zealand's stance towards Fiji continues to soften, in particular with travel sanctions on Fijian sports players.

Key said he is highly optimistic Fiji will hold elections next September.


Story by: Sofaia Koroitanoa