Prime Minister John Key will leave for New York on Monday evening, where he will address the United Nations and briefly meet United States President Barack Obama.
Mr Key will be one of more than 100 leaders attending the 64th UN General Assembly.
He says the gathering is a significant opportunity to connect with world leaders, discuss issues of importance to New Zealand and generally promote this country's interests.
His meeting with Mr Obama will come at a presidential reception, with a handshake and a photo opportunity.
Radio New Zealand political staff say it could be followed up by a one-on-one meeting at an APEC summit later in the year.
