Zhao Leji sits only below president Xi Jinping and premier Li Qiang in order of importance. Photo: RNZ / Giles Dexter
A small crowd has gathered on Parliament's lawn, hours ahead of the visit of the third highest ranking member of the Chinese government.
Zhao Leji, the chairman of the National People's Congress, is visiting Parliament for a bilateral meeting with speaker Gerry Brownlee.
In China's pecking order, Zhao sits only below president Xi Jinping and premier Li Qiang in order of importance.
Security has been tightened on the precinct, with barriers and fences restricting access to the forecourt.
Zhao is not set to visit Parliament until later on Thursday afternoon. Photo: RNZ / Giles Dexter
Zhao is not set to visit Parliament until later on Thursday afternoon.
On Thursday morning, he made a courtesy call to the Prime Minister in Auckland.
Speaking through an interpreter, Zhao said the two nations should have "friendly and in-depth exchanges".
A crowd is also outside a central Wellington hotel where Zhao is believed to be staying.
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