John Key

By Maggie Tait of NZPA

New York, Sept 21 NZPA - Prime Minister John Key will tomorrow arrive in New York for a United Nations General Assembly meeting teeming with security.

The assembly is the largest in recent years, with more than 160 heads of state and government attending, including United States President Barack Obama -- his first as America's leader.

Delegates will make their way through closed streets manned by several thousand police. Other emergency services, including a hazardous materials unit and rapid response teams, will also be on hand.

Snipers will be stationed at some locations and leaders arrive in impressive motorcades. Mr Obama today drove past the UN in a convoy of about 30 vehicles, including 4WDs, motorcycles and multiple black limousines.

Once through the doors there are multiple security checks and x-ray machines, and delays of more than one hour to get inside are expected.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been conducting raids, and cellular networks will be shut down at the sign of any threat.

A police officer told NZPA New Yorkers were used to the annual traffic nightmare and so far "this isn't crazy".

New York resident Dina Katz said people expected to be inconvenienced, and radio broadcasts warned to leave vehicles at home.

"You know it is the general assembly because the traffic will be grid-locked," she said.