Former SIS Minister Andrew Little says China's relationship with its diaspora community is often intense.
Stuff has released a documentary covering allegations of Chinese Communist Party influence and interference operations in New Zealand.
It comes as the Chinese Premier visits New Zealand for the first time in seven years.
Andrew Little says New Zealand is no different to any other country with a significant Chinese population.
"The Communist Party, through its various machines and organs and organisations, stays in close contact with a lot of those people."
LISTEN ABOVE

Chris Bishop: Transport Minister on the progress being made on a second Auckland Harbour crossing
05:10

Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the coalition looking likely to lead according to new poll
05:44

Oliver Peterson: Australian correspondent ahead of the 2026 Australian federal budget being handed down
03:02