The spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand commented on an article in the New Zealand Herald.

There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory. The government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing all of China, which is a universally recognized international norm and principle of international relations. Recognizing and supporting the One China principle is also the political foundation for China to establish and develop diplomatic relations with 183 countries, including New Zealand. The return of Taiwan to China is an important part of the outcome of World War II and the post-war international order. However, an article in the New Zealand Herald on January 29 is filled with Cold War thinking and ideological bias, disregarding historical facts and international consensus, openly endorsing separatist views that challenge the One China principle. This goes against the general consensus of the international community and New Zealand's own One China policy and commitments, and is clearly not in New Zealand's interests. This is not an issue of so-called "freedom of speech", but a fundamental issue regarding the seriousness of international relations norms and the political foundation of China-New Zealand diplomatic relations. The publication of such a article by the New Zealand Herald promoting Taiwan independence rhetoric is disappointing. It is hoped that the New Zealand Herald can be a responsible media outlet, rather than misleading the public and doing harm to others.