Hillary Clinton is warning of Chinese efforts to gain political power and influence policy decisions in New Zealand.
The former US presidential candidate spoke in Auckland on Monday night, addressing a crowd of 3000 people.
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She said alarm bells of Chinese influence here are ringing and the information war is raging.
"Experts are sounding the alarm about Chinese efforts to gain political power and influence policy decisions. And it's just getting started," she said.
"Anne-Marie Brady of the University of Canterbury has rightly called this a new global battle. And it is just getting started. And we need to take it seriously."
Ms Clinton also warned we need to pay attention to what is happening in China, after President Xi's decision to abolish term limits and consolidate power.
She said the consequences of democratic backsliding in this region have enormous global significance.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with Ms Clinton on Monday morning over an hour-long breakfast - and Ms Clinton was complementary about our history of female leaders.
"You are now on your third woman Prime Minister. Just saying."
Ms Clinton also appeared to be impressed with New Zealand and particularly enjoyed One Tree Hill.
"There were a lot more than one tree. Just at that moment my daughter called from FaceTime with my grandchildren," she said.
"And the biggest treat I could give them was to move my phone to show them the sheep. My granddaughter was screaming in delight, it was just the perfect day."
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