NZSIS Community Newsletter

Kia ora koutou,

I am pleased with the reception New Zealand's Security Threat Environment 2025 report has received, which outlines our assessment of violent extremism, foreign interference and espionage in New Zealand.

My team and I have been working hard to get out across the country and engage on the report including with central government, local government, iwi and communities, high-schools and tertiary institutions, and the private sector.

This edition highlights some of the engagements we've been involved in recently. NZSIS has a leadership role to play but our message remains the same: national security is a shared responsibility.

The best result that can be achieved by producing this report is that individuals and entities use our assessments to initiate conversations on national security, and actively identify and manage any risks to themselves, their communities, and their organisations.

If you haven't already, I encourage you to read the report (perhaps some light reading over summer?).

On that note, please remain vigilant over the holiday season when travelling, attending large gatherings, or forming new relationships. No matter the season, concerning behaviours and activities should be relayed to the NZSIS.

Wishing you a peaceful and prosperous time with loved ones 🎄.

Ngā mihi nui,

Andrew Hampton
Director-General of Security

Engagements

^{Credit: RNZ/Liu Chen}

Recent speeches by the Director-General

Andrew Hampton spoke at Dunstan High School's school assembly. His visit was an opportunity to acknowledge students who made significant contributions to the development of Headspace Invaders. Students were also encouraged to consider a career within the NZIC.

During his time in the South Island, Andrew also presented at the Aspen-Otago National Security Forum in Queenstown. During the sessions NZSIS presented at, the need for greater collaboration was highlighted in terms of understanding the threats, building resilience, and reporting concerns.

Read the full transcript of both speeches to Dunstan High School and Aspen-Otago National Security Forum.

Faith-based community engagements

The NZSIS have attended hui with various faith-based communities in recent weeks. An engagement in Wellington saw 40 people from across the country participate. In another engagement, we presented to 50 community members in Auckland. We engaged with a dozen leaders representing different faith groups at an interfaith forum.

Our presentations to communities are similar in nature. We outline the roles and functions of the NZSIS, highlight the national security threats New Zealand faces, and discuss the role communities can play to keep our country safe and secure.

Q&A sessions provide valuable insights into the issues that are top of mind for communities, and they often include topics such as foreign interference targeting communities, navigating the online environment, and keeping safe at crowded places.

The NZSIS has a dedicated engagement programme which aims to raise awareness of national security, build trusted relationships with communities and organisations, and encourage New Zealanders to play a role in keeping our country safe and secure.

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