The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand lodges stern representations with the country's foreign ministry after a Chinese national was recently harassed and questioned by New Zealand's security intelligence authorities while transiting through a local airport, with personal electronic devices seized and partly unreturned, on September 16, 2025. Photo: Screenshot of the Chinese embassy statement

The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand has lodged stern representations with the country's foreign ministry after a Chinese national was recently harassed and questioned by New Zealand's security intelligence authorities while transiting through a local airport, with personal electronic devices seized and partly unreturned. Similar incidents have occurred before, according to a statement released on the embassy's official WeChat account.

The embassy expressed strong dissatisfaction with the unjustified actions of the New Zealand side and demanded an immediate end to such harassment, urging New Zealand to genuinely respect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals, and to provide a safe, friendly and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese students, tourists, and other travelers visiting or transiting the country. Chinese side reserves the right to take further action in response, according to the statement.

At the same time, the Chinese Embassy and consulates in New Zealand reminded Chinese nationals planning to travel to, transit through, or currently staying in New Zealand to remain vigilant and make proper preparations before entering or leaving the country.

Those who encounter unwarranted harassment, discriminatory treatment or infringement of their lawful rights and interests are advised to promptly contact the embassy or consulates for assistance. The Chinese missions in New Zealand will make every effort to provide consular protection and support, said the statement.

Global Times