WELLINGTON - New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Bill English said Friday he would discuss a range of regional and global issues with Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu, who will visit New Zealand on September 27 and 28.

The second-ranked of China's four vice premiers and a member of China's Politburo, Hui will be the most senior Chinese official visitor to New Zealand this year.

"China is one of New Zealand's most important trade and economic partners," English said in a statement.

"Our bilateral relationship is in very good shape and regular high-level engagement is critical to maintaining that," he said.

"I made a very productive visit to China in April this year and I'm pleased to host the vice premier here in New Zealand."

"Talking directly with one of China's senior leaders is valuable in understanding the views of China over a range of regional and global issues. That is important to New Zealand as we plan our future strategies in Asia."

Hui will also meet with Prime Minister John Key and other senior ministers.

Several Chinese vice ministers will accompany Hui, who will preside over the signing of several bilateral arrangements with the English, as well as commercial deals during his visit.

China, the world's second largest economy, is New Zealand's second largest export market. Exports to China have tripled in the past five years.

New Zealand and China signed a Free Trade Agreement in 2008, and it is still the only comprehensive Free Trade Agreement China has concluded with a developed country.