A legal expert sees a reasonable chance New Zealand could waive diplomatic immunity - after allegations about an Australian diplomat's partner

Sky News has reported the partner was involved in an altercation in central Wellington early on Sunday.

New Zealand Police have confirmed they're seeking to waive diplomatic immunity for an individual, so charges can be laid.

Electoral law expert Graeme Edgeler says such actions tend to be on a step by step basis.

He says the friendlier New Zealand is with a country - the more likely they are to agree on potentially waiving immunity.