13 Apr 2012

NZ attitude to foreign investment 'must change'

5:26 pm on 13 April 2012

Hong Kong chief executive Donald Tsang says New Zealand needs to change its attitudes towards Chinese investors or risk missing out on business opportunities.

Mr Tsang is in New Zealand to discuss trade and export. He told Morning Report he understands why people are worried about foreigners buying up land and large assets.

However, he said New Zealanders need to look at it rationally and find someone who can make the best use of the land, generate the greatest wealth and create the most jobs.

Mr Tsang said that if Chinese investors miss out on opportunities, such as the Crafar farms in the North Island, they may invest elsewhere.