A warning to tread carefully with China, as the Year of Tourism finds its way back into the diary.

The event was put on ice amid speculation there were issues with the bilateral relationship, stemming from the Hauwei [wa way] saga.

New Zealand China Council executive director Stephen Jacobi told Mike Hosking ties with China need to be closely monitored.

He says it needs to be managed in a way that setbacks aren't so keenly felt.