FBI Director Kash Patel provoked diplomatic discomfort in New Zealand by suggesting the opening of a new office in the capital aims to counter China’s influence, drawing polite dismissals from Wellington and ire from Beijing.

The FBI inaugurated its first New Zealand office, with Director Kash Patel suggesting it would counter China's influence, causing diplomatic friction.

The FBI has maintained a suboffice in New Zealand since 2017, with both countries collaborating closely on issues such as child exploitation and organised crime. The expanded office reflects growing concerns about Chinas increasing strategic presence in the Pacific,