A former Foreign Affairs Minister says New Zealand won't escape the consequences of accusing China of funding cyber hackers.

The Government has joined western allies in accusing the Chinese Government of funding contracted hackers to conduct a large international ransomware attack.

China's embassy has called our officials to a meeting, to express their concerns about the accusations.

New Zealand China Council chairman Sir Don McKinnon told Mike Yardley there will be consequences for the trading relationship, but the relationship can recover.

“When you consider it’s time to lift the ante, go public, you know it’s serious, you know there will be consequences, but these things do not last forever.”

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