Russia has released a 'blacklist' of New Zealand figures, including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and other MPs, banning them from entering the country.
The blacklist of 130 people includes all 120 members of Parliament, Governor-General Cindy Kiro, the country's spy chiefs and some Defence Force figures.
A translated statement on Russia's foreign ministry website condemns Wellington for following a so-called Russophobic course and docilely following other Western countries.
It is in response to new government sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.
A Foreign Affairs spokesperson said the New Zealand ministry had been informed of the bans by the Moscow embassy overnight, and they were in line with those placed on New Zealand's partners.
New Zealand imposed a 35 percent tariff on all Russian imports yesterday, in response to what the government said was "abhorrent and reprehensible" atrocities committed against Ukrainian citizens.
"New Zealand hasn't done that yet, nor has Australia or America or Britain, but I expect that will be the next step.". »