Protecting New Zealand from Threats to our International and Economic Well-Being

Since 1999, the definition of security in the NZSIS Act has included reference to the protection of New Zealand from activities within or relating to New Zealand that:

• are influenced by any foreign organisation or foreign person
• are clandestine or deceptive or threaten the safety of any person, and
• impact adversely on New Zealand's international or economic well-being.

The proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and the development of systems to deliver them is of concern world-wide, and the Service plays a part in New Zealand's work against this threat.

International concern has highlighted the need for effective security protection in areas involving potential dual-use technology - where methods or products developed for one purpose may be diverted instead for use in warfare programmes and weapons of mass destruction.

The Service works with other government agencies to prevent New Zealand research, technology and equipment being obtained for such uses.