WELLINGTON, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- About 500 people gathered in the New Zealand National Museum on Monday to enjoy the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival Reception was hosted by the Chinese embassy in New Zealand.

At the beginning of the speech, Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wu Xi extended her sympathy to the Chinese families of those who lost their lives in the tragic bus accident in Rotorua in New Zealand's North Island on Wednesday.

"All of us at the embassy have been deeply affected by this terrible event. Our thoughts are also with the people who were injured in the accident and we wish them all a speedy recovery," she said.

Wu stressed that the Mid-Autumn Festival is a day for family gatherings and reunions. It's a time when many Chinese people and their descendants abroad think about their families and think about reunions.

She talked about the "One country, two systems" principle, saying "it is the best system for maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao. No matter what challenges and obstacles we may encounter, we will unswervingly promote the practice of "one country, two systems'."

"That means we resolutely oppose the pro-independence activists in Hong Kong trampling on the rule of law, undermining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and challenging the very basis of the 'one country, two systems' principle," she added.

Wu acknowledged that the New Zealand-China relationship has created a long list of "firsts" in China's relations with developed countries, bringing tangible benefits to both countries.

"There is much potential to further enhance bilateral relations. China's deepening reforms and further opening up to the outside world will bring greater opportunities to countries around the world, including New Zealand. New Zealand will also benefit greatly from the cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative," the Chinese embassador said.