There's close interest to see what China's future influence will be in the Pacific.

Winston Peters heads to China next week and will be discussing how they can work together to help Pacific nations.

Massey University East Asia expert Marc Lanteigne told Mike Hosking there's some concern over what the relationship will look like.

"China has been increasing its own diplomacy in the Pacific area. That said, there is also a great potential for collaboration between Beijing and Wellington on state and development projects."

LISTEN TO MARC LANTEIGNE TALK WITH MIKE HOSKING ABOVE