Ms Robertson said she had later heard - and only from the media - about a tour group possibly attending. Volunteers had not reported anything and no sponsors had contacted her with concerns, she said.
But if any tour operator or cruise ship had sent groups to the lunch, it was irresponsible and she would wish they give money in return.
TVNZ showed footage of a table of about 10 older Asian people and its reporter attempting to speak to a woman.
A spokeswoman for Jetstar, which donated $25,000 to the City Mission for Christmas, said no issues had been raised.
Though the company had been listed as a sponsor, the spokeswoman said Jetstar had only made a donation and the event was organised entirely by the mission.
On Trade Me's message board there was an angry reaction to the television report.
One commenter said tourists who could afford airfares to New Zealand should not be given a free lunch and could participate by volunteering.
