The Chinese Embassy in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / REECE BAKER
The Chinese Embassy in Wellington has accused New Zealand's spies of harassing Chinese citizens at its airports, claiming one traveller was recently interrogated without cause and had devices seized by security agencies.
In a statement published late on Tuesday, the embassy said it had lodged a "serious representation" with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and reserved the right to take further action.
It said a Chinese citizen was "subjected to harassment and interrogation without cause by NZ security and intelligence agency personnel" during transit.
"His personal digital devices were confiscated, and some of them have not been returned to date."
The embassy pointed to similar incidents reported elsewhere and demanded that "such wrongful acts cease immediately", calling them deplorable and unwarranted.
It said Chinese students, tourists and other travellers had a right to be respected in a "safe, fair and non-discriminatory" environment.
The embassy warned Chinese nationals heading to New Zealand to "remain vigilant" and report any harassment or discriminatory treatment to consular officials.
"The Chinese side reserves the right to make further responses."
RNZ has contacted both MFAT and the Security Intelligence Service (SIS) for comment.
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