A Race and Ethnic Relations expert thinks we shouldn't worry about white supremacists in New Zealand.

While discussing the emergence of a number of white pride groups in Auckland's universities with Mike Hosking, Paul Spoonley said although there's no doubt some people hold these views, perspective is important.

"I've had a good look at both groups, and I'm not sure there's many people involved. You do need to put that into perspective when you look at the broader context of New Zealand."

Spoonley said a better indicator of our race relations is the Asia New Zealand report that shows up to 80% of kiwis are fine with immigration levels.

LISTEN ABOVE AS PAUL SPOONLEY SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING

The debate comes from the discovery of racist posters at the University of Auckland campus.

The posters carried slogans such as "White Lives Matter!" and "Hey, white man! Only you can prevent white genocide," as well as a young, fit, white couple reminiscent of wartime recruitment posters.

Images of the posters were posted to Facebook by a woman claiming to be an Auckland University student but it has since been claimed the account was a fake created to generate publicity for the Western Guard group behind the propaganda.

During Auckland University's orientation week there was an Auckland University's European Students Association stall, but the group announced it would shut down after generating controversy. The now ex-leader of the group has said that the Western Guard was established after being inspired by his association.

The AUT New Zealand European Association has also been established, but not sanctioned by the university. It then became independent and changed its name to the NZ European Association.

Juan-Pierre Aucamp, leader of the NZ European Association, took measures to distance his group from the Western Guard, calling them "utterly disrespectful."

A police spokesperson told The Herald that the posters fell under the Bill of Rights and freedom of expression.

"They don't appear to be inciting violence and crime and so at this stage this is not something we would comment further on."

However, when The Herald contacted the Western Guard and asked if it genuinely believed what it said, the group responded: "We want physically fit members because being physically fit is proof that someone has discipline and willpower, not whatever you're apparently implying - Western Guard does not condone violence of any kind, as is clearly stated on our website."

Anyone who saw the posters as hate speech had "illegitimate concerns."

The Western Guard website gives a special mention to their "brothers in the USA - Vanguard America."

Vanguard America say on their website: "Our religion, our traditions, and our identity are dragged through the mud by the globalist establishment while millions of nonwhites flood our nation every year. If current trends continue, White Americans will be a minority by 2044."