China is calling on New Zealand to provide a policy environment that will create a fast track for Chinese investment, according to China's fourth-ranked leader, Jia Qinglin, who made the remark in a contribution to the New Zealand Herald.

"China welcomes New Zealand companies to invest in China and will continue to provide them with a sound investment environment," he says in a contribution to the Herald over the weekend.

The Herald noted Mr Jia did not specify the bid by Shanghai Pengxin for 16 Crafar farms in receivership, which is currently awaiting another ministerial decision after getting blocked by the High Court following an approval by ministers.

Mr Jia also encouraged more Chinese to consider investing in New Zealand even after hinting the policy environment needs improvement.

"China also encourages capable and credible Chinese companies to invest in New Zealand... We hope New Zealand will provide them with an enabling policy environment and facilitate Chinese investment so as to scale up two-way investment and achieve all-round and balanced growth in our business ties."

Mr Jia is the highest-ranking visitor from China since Vice-President Xi Jinping's arrival in July 2010. His visit marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and China, the Herald reported.

Mr Jia is set to meet with Acting Prime Minister Bill English while Prime Minister John Key is in a visit to Indonesia and Singapore.