would like to take my thai wife to NZ to LIVE. would appreciate any info re visa for her before approaching NZ embassy

First of all, you dont approach the NZL embassy. You approach the NZL immigration service (NZIS). Different government department, they are in the same building in All Seasons Place on Wireless Rd, but on a different floor.

Also I presume you are a NZL citizen or Permanent Resident ?

What are the circumstances of your partnership ? Have you been together a long time, living together in thailand etc.... ?

NZIS addresses the concept of "partnership", being married or not is largely irrelevant.Being able to prove a bonafide/genuine partnership for at least 12 mths is what counts.

How quickly do you want to go to NZL ? If you want to migrate then she'll need to get Permanent Residency under the family category. This can take 9 months+ to process in Bangkok.

But to get to NZL quicker it would be best to get your partner a 2 year multiple entry Work Visa under the partnership category, then apply for residency once in NZL.Provided you meet NZIS requirements, this visa is trivial and quick to get.

All the info you need is at www.immigration.govt.nz , read it, make it your bible.

But for me to give you more accurate advice, please give some details about :

1) the nature of your partnership together, your circumstances etc..

2) how quickly do you want to get to NZL