Barack Obama confirmed to visit New Zealand in March

Former United States President Barack Obama will be visiting New Zealand in March, it's been confirmed.

He will be speaking at a New Zealand-United States Council event in Auckland on March 22.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has welcomed the announcement.

"I look forward to welcoming Mr Obama to our country and anticipate meeting him once his full programme is finalised," she said in a statement.

While Mr Obama is in New Zealand, he'll be catching up for a round of golf with former Prime Minister Sir John Key, Sir John confirmed to Newshub on Sunday.

The duo frequently played golf together during their time as the nations' leaders and Mr Obama previously called Sir John a "good friend".

Council chairman Leon Grice said President Obama's presidency had an extraordinary impact on the world.

"During his service, New Zealand's deep friendship with the United States was strengthened politically, culturally, in trade and investment, innovation and security."

Mr Grice said the Council will invite a range of young leaders, businesss leaders, and community leaders to the event.

"It will be invitation only, we're not selling tickets." 

Mr Obama will then go on to Sydney on March 23 for another Council event.

This announcement follows last week's revelation that former democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton is coming to New Zealand in May.

Newshub.