A Chinese children's show filming in Tauranga today is being seen as a chance to showcase the region's education sector.
The reality show Nine Buddies has traditionally featured Chinese children aged nine to 12 travelling to destinations within their own country.
The series is now being expanded to include foreign countries including New Zealand and the United States.
About 25 cast and crew are today meeting city officials, walking around Mount Maunganui, playing volleyball, visiting rockpools, eating fish 'n' chips and visiting a primary school.
Education Tauranga regional manager Anne Young arranged the visit with Education New Zealand in Shanghai.