An international relations expert says New Zealand has sent a clear message to China: stop interfering or it will escalate its response.
The Government has accused Beijing of being behind a successful hack of Parliament three years ago when some MPs data was taken.
The US and UK have made similar claims and have begun filing charges and imposing sanctions on Chinese individuals and entities.
One expert says New Zealand may have to follow suit if it finds more evidence of Chinese interference, despite the potential impact on trade.
Political reporter Anneke Smith has more.
