Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully has condemned an attack in Libya which killed four United States diplomatic staff.
In the attack on the US consulate in Benghazi, an armed mob outraged over a low-budget US movie mocking Islam stormed the building and set it on fire.
US Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three American staff members were killed as they assisted in the evacuation of staff.
Mr McCully extended New Zealand's condolences to the United States and its government.
"We are shocked and saddened by this attack on the US post ... New Zealand strongly condemns these acts of violence and sends our thoughts to the families, colleagues and friends of those killed," he said.
Mr McCully added that New Zealand is committed to working with partners "in pursuit of a more stable and democratic Libya".
NZN