An international law expert says the Foreign Minister is right to want to refresh New Zealand's relationship with the Cook Islands

The island nation signed a five-year agreement with China for seabed mineral exploration and research without New Zealand consultation.

Winston Peters has called for the Government to address issues with the Cook Islands after it also signed a strategy plan with China last week.

Auckland University of Technology Senior Lecturer Sione Tekiteki says there needs to be more consultation but a better understanding of how its conducted.