The Prince of Wales has been appointed to three senior honorary positions within the New Zealand military.

Prime Minister John Key has announced that Prince Charles has been appointed Admiral of the Fleet for the Navy, Field Marshal of the Army, and also Marshal of the Air Force.

John Key says the appointments are traditional.

"Currently Prince Philip holds these titles, so Prince Charles will be holding them concurrently. They're consistent with what happens in other armed forces."

The appointments will be formally recognised when the Prince is here on an official visit in November.