Criticism has come of the millions of dollars being spent to educate the children of our diplomats serving overseas.

The Taxpayers' Union says the children's premium education costs taxpayers $5 million a year - with $800,000 going to children in the US, and $500,000 to children in China.

Union spokesperson Oliver Bryan told Mike Hosking it's a waste given the amount he claims diplomats earn.

Bryan says it's unfair for New Zealanders to foot the bill during a cost of living crisis, when our own schools are struggling.

He says these children should go to state schools where possible.

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