More than 130 registrations were taken for the two-day seminars and workshops being run for southern businesses interested in pursuing opportunities in China following April's Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) ran the event, but stipulated media could only attend the first day as "observers", and not directly report or photograph proceedings.
The media was barred entirely from the second day's workshops.
Concerns over reporting restrictions were raised by the Otago Daily Times with NZTE China market manager Pat English.
While wanting to get the business message across to companies during the countrywide road show, allowing media to directly report proceeding would inhibit speakers from "free and frank discussion", he said.
Lead negotiator for the FTA David Walker spoke via a video-conference link from the US to about 80 registered people in the the Fulwood Room at the Dunedin Centre yesterday, giving an overview of the FTA negotiations.
He outlined business access and opportunities that evolved from the reduction in tariffs between October 1 and 2016, including obligations under rules of product origin, customs procedures, biosecurity and hygiene issues and product certification.
Several consultants spoke over the two days on issues ranging from tax and VAT requirements, accountancy through to merger and acquisitions and financing for China projects.
There were also talks given by NZTE representatives and trade commissioners.
Otago Polytechnic communications and customer service general manager Mike Waddell briefed the audience on the school's experiences in China.
In April, the polytechnic sent a small delegation to Shanghai for discussions with local business people interested in updating their tertiary qualifications.
Following a breakfast with Minister of Economic Development Pete Hodgson today, there will be a presentation by John Crawford from the Dunedin-based documentary maker Natural History New Zealand, which has established strong links with Chinese counterparts.
