A blank piece of paper has become the symbol of rare demonstrations across China as frustrations over stringent lockdowns boil over.

Police forces have pushed back against the crowds who are calling for an end to the Government’s zero-COVID policy, and the tough restrictions that come with it.

Masses of people on the streets are holding empty signs - thought to symbolise the silencing of dissent.

New Zealand China Council chairperson John McKinnon, who also served twice as NZ Ambassador to China, joins us.

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