The Chinese consulate in French Polynesia is yet to say on what legal basis it can continue to occupy a house in Tahiti after the expiry of its lease.
Residence Taina used as Chinese diplomatic mission in French Polynesia Photo: supplied
The lease expired at the end of February but the diplomats at Residence Taina have refused to move and instead offered to buy the premises despite the house not being for sale.
The Chinese consulate told RNZ Pacific last week that all-round information on the subject could be given by its lawyer in Papeete who has however declined to answer.
The French High Commission has also declined to explain on what legal basis the diplomats can stay in the house.
The owner's daughter said she has been advised by the High Commissioner not to challenge the Chinese diplomats.
She said she was told that no judge and no court would ever receive a case implicating the consulate of China and its diplomats.
It has also been suggested to her that she could lose the house.
