New Zealand's foreign minister says his country will not recognise the State of Palestine at this time but remains committed to a two-state solution.

"With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time," Winston Peters said in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly.

"We are also concerned that a focus on recognition, in the current circumstances, could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions," Peters said.

New Zealand's position is out of step with traditional partners Australia, Canada and Britain who all recognised a Palestinian

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