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SV Chinese diplomats down aircraft steps and greeted
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SV PAN..Diplomats walk across tarmac (2 shots)
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SCU Chinese children with bouquets
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SV Chinese diplomats enter and being presented with bouquets (APPLAUSE)
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Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: A nine-man diplomatic mission from The People's Republic of China arrived in Wellington on Monday (March 26) to establish the country's first embassy in New Zealand.

New Zealand's new Labour Government announced after its election victory in December that it would recognise The People's Republic of China and quickly establish diplomatic representation. New Zealand plans to have a diplomatic post in Peking by the end of the year.

The Chinese Charge d'Affaires Shih Chiao and his team were presented with bunches of flowers at the airport by members of New Zealand's Chinese community. They will be looking for permanent premises for an embassy. The ambassador has not yet been appointed.

Last month diplomats from China arrived to set up an embassy in Australia.

SYNOPSIS: Members of New Zealand's Chinese community were at Wellington airport to welcome the diplomats - with bouquets of flowers.

Mr. Shih and a second secretary wore lapel badges depicting New Zealand's national emblem, the Kiwi. They were presented in Hong Kong by Mr. Joseph Walding, New Zealand Associate Foreign Minister. He was on his way to Peking for an official visit. An advance New Zealand diplomatic party will follow. Last month the first team of diplomats from The People's Republic of China arrived in Australia.