No thanks, PM tells NZ on refugee offer

Malcolm Turnbull says Australia appreciates New Zealand's offer to take refugees but wants to focus on a US deal.

Malcolm Turnbull says Australia appreciates New Zealand's offer to take refugees. (AAP)

Malcolm Turnbull has said a polite "no, thanks" to New Zealand on its offer to take 150 refugees from Australia's offshore detention network.

Prime Minister Bill English revealed the longstanding proposal remains on the table after his first formal catch-up with his counterpart.

"(The offer) is one that we appreciate but our focus is on completing the arrangements with the United States," Mr Turnbull told reporters in Queenstown on Saturday before flying out of the country.