Chinese missile destroyer Qingdao is among the vessels arriving in Auckland today

Three Chinese Navy ships are visiting Auckland and Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman says it's evidence of New Zealand's engagement with Asia-Pacific partners.

The People's Liberation Army Navy Task Force involves the destroyer Qingdao, frigate Linyi and supply ship Hongzehu.

They're taking part in an extended Pacific deployment and will be in Auckland from today to Tuesday.

"The visit also reflects our growing defence engagement with China and the wider political and economic links between our countries," Dr Coleman said today.

The New Zealand Navy is organising a programme for the task force's 680 sailors.

The visit reciprocates HMNZS Te Mana's port visit to Shanghai and Hong Kong earlier this year.

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