New Zealand is seeking input into a new ministerial directive amid concerns the Albanese government will re-start deporting criminals across the Tasman in a bid to stem domestic political damage from the latest immigration saga.

As Opposition Leader Peter Dutton accused Anthony Albanese of “putting his close and sycophantic relationship with (former NZ prime minister) Jacinda Ardern ahead of the safety of Australians”, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters warned against a return to a practice which caused significant strain on the relationship.