New Zealand's Auckland airport has defended its decision to order the removal of a poster promoting the Falun Gong spiritual movement.

The poster - showing a woman meditating underneath the words 'The world needs truth, compassion and forbearance' - was displayed in a gate lounge for international travelers.

New Zealand's Green Party has accused the airport of bowing to pressure from China which [started to suppress Falun Gong in 1999].

However airport managing director, John Goulter, says the poster was taken down after complaints from travelers but before a letter of complaint from Chinese diplomats.

A Chinese embassy spokesman says Beijing's consulate-general in Auckland complained because Chinese residents and tourists were offended.

The Greens say it is shocking that New Zealand is adding to the persecution of the Falun Gong by Beijing.

http://abc.net.au/ra/newstories/RANewsStories_609684.htm