The government is fast-tracking the visitor visas of wealthy Chinese travellers under two new deals with airlines.
The fast-track is for Air China's Gold and Platinum frequent flyers and China Eastern Gold and Silver members. Photo: AFP
Immigration New Zealand said the tourism industry partnerships, which began last week, will create a streamlined visa process for high-status frequent flyers on Air China and China Eastern Airlines.
The fast-track is for Air China's Gold and Platinum frequent flyers and China Eastern Gold and Silver members.
Immigration New Zealand said all applicants would still need to meet health and character requirements.
It said it has worked with the airlines to put a robust processes in place to ensure all visa applicants meet the necessary requirements.
The first such deal in 2012 with China Southern Airlines came under fire from the New Zealand First leader Winston Peters, who claimed SkyCity wanted fast-track visas to attract high-rolling gamblers from China.
Leaked memos from Immigration New Zealand at the time said the airline's clients wanted to avoid answering questions about their employment history and financial backing.
But then Immigration Minister, Nathan Guy, said he was satisfied the deal would not compromise the integrity of New Zealand's immigration system.
Air China operates direct flight services between Beijing and Auckland, and China Eastern between Shanghai and Auckland.