New Zealand's United Nations permanent representative Jim McLay says doors are already opening for the country since it gained a seat on the UN Security Council.
Jim McLay Photo: AFP
He said in terms of trade and other benefits, New Zealand was finding it easier to reach people to whom it would otherwise have limited access.
"Doors that we previously couldn't kick down suddenly open with just the lightest touch, when you're on the council people pay attention to you and they expect a lot of us."
Mr McLay said the biggest challenge for New Zealand during its term would be navigating the conflicts in the Middle East.