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New Zealand's 
Countering Terrorism 
and Violent 
Extremism Strategy
Bringing our nation together to protect 
all New Zealanders from terrorism and 
violent extremism of all kinds


New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
Prime Minister’s foreword 
Tēnā koutou, 
The terror attack on the Al Noor Mosque and the 
As a Government we are committed to listening 
Linwood Islamic Centre in Christchurch on 15 
to and empowering communities and providing 
March 2019 was unprecedented in New Zealand. 
support to those who need it. 
51 Shuhadah died, many were injured, and 
We are committed to eliminating violent and 
Muslim communities were deeply impacted. The 
extremist content online, and working with 
rest of the country embraced them, and we have 
international partners and organisations,  
made it clear that radicalisation, violent extremism 
through initiatives such as the Christchurch Call 
and terrorism have no place in New Zealand. 
to Action. We will continue working with our 
international partners to share information and 
While the aim of terrorism is to shake our beliefs 
best-practice, to help combat extremism wherever 
and divide us, New Zealand instead responded 
it may appear.
with compassion, empathy and solidarity. 
Government’s contribution, however, is only part 
New Zealand has never been immune to terrorism 
of the story. He Whenua Taurikura, New Zealand’s 
and violent extremism – no country can be. We 
annual hui on countering terrorism and violent 
planned to respond and recover from a terrorist 
extremism, which brings together government 
event, but never wanted those plans to be put  
with communities, civil society, the private sector, 
to use. 
academia and the media, is a key opportunity to 
build expertise, networks, and resilience.
New Zealand’s Countering Terrorism and Violent 
Extremism Strategy details how government 
I wish all attendees the best. 
undertakes its responsibility to keep Aotearoa 
safe for all New Zealanders. 
Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa 
Let us keep close together, not wide apart  

2021 © Crown Copyright
The focus of the strategy is preventing 
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons BY 4.0 New Zealand licence.  
You are free to copy, distribute and adapt the work, as long as you attribute the work to the 
terrorism and violent extremism by combatting 
 
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) and follow any other licence terms.
radicalisation in all forms and building a society 
To see a copy of this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
that is safe, diverse, and inclusive – one in 
Published by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC), June 2021. 
which all individuals and groups have a sense of 
Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern 
dpmc.govt.nz • [DPMC request email]
belonging, inclusion, participation, recognition  
Prime Minister
and legitimacy. 
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New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to preventing 
Underpinned by 
and countering all forms of terrorism and violent 
extremism is based on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, human 
Underpinned 
rights, open government norms, and the principle 
of proportionality.
by
le :gislation
We will achieve our aim by: 
Working in partnership 
governance
The government will work in partnership with 
the public, communities, the private sector, local 
01
government and others, focusing on reducing 
and mitigating the risks of terrorism and violent 
public 
extremism of all kinds to New Zealand and our 
ınformation
citizens, residents and visitors.
Ensuring that as a nation we connect with 
Our vision
responsive 
each other
National Security System
If we see something that concerns us, we will say 
something, and we will know what to do to keep 
ourselves safe. 
Bringing our nation together to protect all New Zealanders 
capabilities
Supporting the efforts of the 
from terrorism and violent extremism of all kinds
international community
We will continue to work closely with international 
partners to counter terrorism and violent 
Our strategy to prevent and counter all forms of 
This strategy aims to secure Aotearoa 
extremism at the global, regional and national 
terrorism and violent extremism is about working 
New Zealand from the threat of terrorism 
levels. 
together as a nation. Prevention is our priority. 
and violent extremism, and to ensure that all 
We will increase our understanding of the issues, 
communitiesm, iwi, hapū, whānau and individuals 
Focusing on prevention
work collectively, build resilient communities 
feel secure. This strategy also reaffirms the 
Prevention is our priority, while having the right 
and whānau, and address the underlying causes 
Government’s commitment to international 
capabilities across government, coordinated by 
of violent extremism. We will ensure Aotearoa 
efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism 
an agile and effective national security system 
New Zealand's systems and capabilities are ready 
regionally and globally.
and enabled by fit for purpose legislation, so that 
to identify and act early to reduce risks, and to 
when we need to act, we can do so cohesively, 
respond to and recover from events.   
responsively, ethically and efficiently.
Our  
network 
New 
our communities, 
private 
local 
public 
Zealanders
iwi and hapū
sector
government
sector
security sector
media
international
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New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
often lone actors and small groups mainly 
What is terrorism, violent 
communicating online. The Christchurch 
extremism and extremism? 
terrorist continues to be glorified in White 
Identity Extremist circles, and his actions 
Terrorism. Under New Zealand law, a terrorist 
have inspired terrorist attacks in the US and 
act is defined as an ideologically, politically, or 
Europe since March 2019. 
religiously motivated act – including, but not 
limited to, those causing death or serious bodily 
The internet continues to be abused by 
injury – intended to intimidate a population, or to 
violent extremists. Anonymity, accessibility, 
compel the government to do or not do certain 
the privacy provided by encryption, and the 
things. 
challenges for governments, companies and 
Violent extremism. The justification of violence 
02 
civil society of keeping ahead of technology, 
provide an enabling environment. Violent 
with the aim of radically changing the nature of 
extremists from across the ideological 
government, religion or society. This violence is 
spectrum use the internet to recruit, share 
often targeted against groups seen as threatening 
knowledge and plan attacks. Online extremist 
violent extremists’ success or survival, or 
narratives can have a rapid radicalising effect, 
undermining their world view. 
Nature of the risk, June 2021
meaning that violent extremists inspired by 
Extremism. Religious, social or political belief 
various ideologies can emerge with little or 
systems that exist substantially outside of more 
no forewarning. 
broadly accepted belief systems in large parts of 
society, and are often seen as objectionable to 
New Zealand’s terrorism environment 
large parts of society. Extreme ideologies may 
New Zealand’s terrorism and violent extremism chal enges
Violent extremist narratives in New Zealand 
seek radical changes in the nature of government, 
are influenced by international trends and 
religion or society or to create a community based 
can be adapted to the New Zealand context. 
on their ideology. 
Violent extremism is an evolving threat, driven by 
White Identity Extremism1 ideology, such as the 
For example, the 2019 Christchurch terrorist 
increasingly complex and convoluted ideologies. 
Christchurch terrorist. Other forms, including 
attack, grievances associated with the 
This strategy focuses on extremist narratives, activities 
Terrorism continues to threaten the safety of 
politically-motivated extremism and single-issue 
COVID-19 pandemic, international political 
and movements only where they cross, or intend to 
individuals and the cohesion of communities, 
extremism, are of concern but less prominent.
and social tensions and conflicts, and 
cross, into violence. Non-violent forms of extremism, 
globally and in New Zealand. Common drivers 
extremist content on the internet, have all 
however objectionable, lie outside this mandate. 
of violent extremism include polarisation within 
While ISIL has lost its territorial “caliphate” in Iraq 
influenced the New Zealand terrorism threat 
a society, divisions between and within political, 
and Syria, it still inspires attacks globally through 
environment over the past year. 
religious and identity groups, and real and 
its propaganda, financing and support to followers. 
in New Zealand. The attack is still discussed 
perceived threats to the identity, values, power 
ISIL continues to pose a significant threat in 
Consistent with the global picture, identity- 
among the small number of New Zealand-based 
and status of a group. 
ungoverned and unstable areas worldwide, 
motivated and faith-motivated violent extremism 
White Identity Extremists, and the attack and 
particularly in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
are the most prominent forms of violent 
the terrorist’s livestream video and manifesto 
Global trends 
extremism in New Zealand today. Similarly, 
continue to circulate online. As a result, there 
Globally, the two most high-profile forms of violent 
Over the past several years, increased attention 
politically- and single issue-motivated violent 
remains a realistic possibility the Christchurch 
extremism are faith-motivated – exemplified 
has been drawn to the threat of White Identity 
extremism remain of concern, but have less overt 
attacks could inspire a copycat or retaliatory attack 
by those associated with Al-Qaida and the 
Extremism, including in New Zealand, Australia, 
support in the public space. 
in New Zealand.
Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) – and 
Europe and North America. Such extremists are 
identity-motivated, particularly adherents to a 
The Christchurch terrorist attack will likely 
1  Describes extreme racial ideologies and beliefs that are 
Support for ISIL in New Zealand has very likely 
focussed on real or perceived threats to concepts of a white, 
have a long-term effect on violent extremism 
declined as the group’s physical presence in its 
ethnic-European culture and identity.
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New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
core territory of Iraq and Syria has been degraded. 
likelihood of a terrorism incident. It is designed 
There are a small number of New Zealand-based 
as a tool to inform and guide government risk 
extremists who continue to support ISIL. Should 
assessment and risk management activity.
the group rebound, splinter, or if a new group 
emerges with a similar ideology, there will likely 
As of June 2021, the national terrorism threat 
be renewed attention from New Zealand-based 
level is MEDIUM; a terrorist attack is feasible 
faith-motivated violent extremists. 
and could well occur. The threat level is under 
continual evaluation and takes into account 
Outlook
specific domestic considerations and relevant 
Globally, extremist ideologies are likely to become 
international threat factors.
more varied, and individuals will increasingly 
draw from a range of inspirations to justify their 
The Combined Threat Assessment Group (CTAG), 
actions. Most attacks will likely continue to be 
an autonomous inter-agency group hosted by the 
unsophisticated, and lone-actor attacks will remain 
New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS), 
03
common. Violent extremists are highly likely to 
is responsible for reviewing and recommending 
continue to focus on accessible, “soft” targets, 
the national terrorism threat level. The assessed 
such as crowded places and symbolic locations. 
threat level is set by the Director-General of 
Groups will likely continue to learn tactics from 
Security. The Officials Committee for Domestic 
Delivering the vision
each other, and the internet will almost certainly 
and External Security Coordination (ODESC) 
continue to enable radicalisation and recruitment.
considers the appropriate response and 
recommendations are made to ministers, 
In New Zealand, if a terrorist attack happens 
including the Prime Minister.
over the next 12 months, it will likely be carried 
Our framework: focused on reduction
out by a lone actor who resorts to violence 
A change in threat level is used to determine 
without forewarning. 
government planning and risk management, and 
to advise agencies so they can take any further 
The following pages provide an overview of the 
»  Recovery — using coordinated efforts and 
The national terrorism threat level
appropriate measures. A change in the threat level 
four priority areas for this strategy and the actions 
processes to bring about immediate, medium-
does not necessarily require a specific response 
The national terrorism threat level is a scale of five 
that we will take to deliver the vision of bringing 
term, and long-term regeneration. 
from the public.
levels that provides an assessment of the
our nation together to protect all New Zealanders 
from terrorism and violent extremism of all kinds.
Under this strategy, these 4Rs have been distilled 
Threat Level Likelihood Assessment
into four pillars of: 
This framework is built around New Zealand’s 
I.  mōhio — understand
Extreme
Terrorist attack, or violent criminal behaviour, or violent protest activity is expected.
holistic and integrated approach to managing 
national security risk, known as the 4Rs:
II.  mahi tahi — work together
High
Terrorist attack, or violent criminal behaviour, or violent protest activity is assessed as 
highly likely.
»  Reduction — identifying and analysing 
III.  whakahōtaetae — prevent
long-term risks and taking steps to eliminate 
IV.  takatū — be ready to respond and recover
Medium
Terrorist attack, or violent criminal behaviour, or violent protest activity is assessed  
as feasible and could well occur.
these risks if practicable, or if not, to reduce 
their likelihood and the magnitude of 
Within these pillars, our focus is on 
Low
Terrorist attack, or violent criminal behaviour, or violent protest activity is assessed  
as a realistic possibility.
their impact.
prevention.
Very low
Terrorist attack, or violent criminal behaviour, or violent protest activity is assessed as unlikely.
»  Readiness — developing operational systems 
and capabilities before an emergency happens.
Table: CTAG Threat Level Definitions1 
»  Response — taking action immediately before, 
1  New Zealand’s current national terrorism threat level and information about counter-terrorism and wider national security is 
during or directly after a significant event.
available on the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) website.
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New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
An annual work programme accompanies the 
The CTCC was established in 2015, to bring 
The key responsibilities of the CTCC are therefore 
These supporting elements include:
strategy. The work programme outlines a range 
together the significant pieces of work to counter 
to implement this strategy by:
»  National Security System (NSS) Handbook.
of actions to advance these priority areas and our 
terrorism and violent extremism being led by 
»  Supporting strategic decision-making and 
»  Counter-Terrorism Handbook.
national capabilities. 
different agencies across government, and to 
action, including by providing advice and 
»  Terrorism Risk Profile.
collectively deliver improvements to the counter-
recommendations to SIB Chief Executives.
»  Protecting Our Crowded Places from Attack: 
Delivery of the work programme across 
terrorism system at a national level. 
»  Coordinating and driving inter-agency work to 
New Zealand's Strategy.
government is coordinated by the 
counter terrorism and violent extremism.
»  National Anti-Money Laundering and 
Counter-Terrorism Coordination Committee 
Countering Financing of Terrorism Strategy.
(CTCC), reporting to the Security and Intelligence 
This strategy and work programme is supported 
»  Christchurch Call to Action to eliminate terrorist 
Board (SIB) of Chief Executives.
by a range of plans, strategies and information 
and violent extremist content online.
developed to address specific aspects of this work. 
Our framework is focused on reduction
REDUCTION
READINESS
RESPONSE
RECOVERY
mōhio
mahi tahi
whakahōtaetae
takatū
understand — we're 
work together — 
prevent — prevention is 
ready to respond 
aware and informed
partnerships are key
our priority
and recover — we're 
We detect and understand the threat, while our 
We work collectively as a nation to reduce  
We focus our efforts and capabilities on 
prepared
people look out for each other and know what 
the risk
effective, long-term prevention
to do when something happens
We take a victim-centred approach, responding 
»  Our capabilities across government are 
»  Our inclusive society addresses the causes of 
swiftly to protect lives and working in 
»  New Zealanders have the information they 
integrated, effective, efficient, and reflect our 
violent extremism.
partnership to support recovery
need to be aware, engaged and stay safe.
values.
»  We support those in need and promote the 
»  Our security agencies have the right 
 
» We work in partnership with the public, 
disengagement and rehabilitation of people 
»  We focus on protecting lives and supporting 
capabilities to detect and understand the 
communities, the private sector and local 
engaged with violent extremist ideologies.
victims.
threat to New Zealand.
government.
»  Enabled by appropriate legislation, we act 
»  We have the right capabilities and legislation 
»  We share appropriate information across the 
»  We work with our international partners to 
early and proportionately to prevent attacks 
to allow us to respond effectively and 
public and private sector.
identify and prevent terrorism and violent 
and keep people safe.
efficiently.
extremism of all kinds.
»  We safeguard and build resilience in our 
»  Our National Security System and 
communities, especially those at higher risk.
responsible agencies are coordinated, 
»  Those responsible for the safety of others 
practiced and responsive.
know and meet their obligations.
»  We look after our people, and support the 
recovery of individuals and communities.
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mōhio — understand 
terrorism threats, working closely with New 
Together, the National Centre of Excellence and 
Zealand Police’s investigative and intelligence 
He Whenua Taurikura will provide a focus for 
We’re aware and informed
teams. A range of government agencies 
reliable, evidence-based public information that 
contribute to our overall understanding of the risk 
accurately reflects the nature of the risk, fostered 
environment.
within sensitive, respectful and constructive 
conversations and dialogue. 
To promote research and understanding of 
We detect and understand the threat, while our people look 
terrorism and violent extremism, we will establish 
Agencies across government will also increase 
and support a National Centre of Excellence. 
public information sharing, and coordinate to 
out for each other and know what to do when something 
The centre will bring together academia, civil 
ensure consistent, clear information is provided in 
happens.
society and government to research preventing 
a timely manner. Several agencies – in particular 
and countering violent extremism, with a 
New Zealand Police and the NZSIS – have a 
focus on approaches that build resilience 
key role in ensuring New Zealanders have the 
Objectives:
base shared widely. Global, regional and local 
through embracing diversity and promoting 
information they need to be aware, engaged and 
»  New Zealanders have the information they 
contexts are important for understanding current 
social cohesion. This centre will help inform 
stay safe.
need to be aware, engaged and stay safe.
and emerging violent extremism trends and 
public discussion, raise awareness of these 
»  Our security agencies have the right capabilities 
ideologies, as are related and overlapping issues, 
issues and guide the work of policy agencies 
to detect and understand the threat to 
such as the spread of conspiracy theories and 
across government.
New Zealand.
mis- and dis-information.  
»  We share appropriate information across the 
We will also host He Whenua Taurikura (‘a country 
public and private sector.
New Zealand universities and other research 
at peace’), New Zealand’s hui on countering 
institutes have a key role in building this national 
terrorism and violent extremism. This annual hui 
Building a shared and clear, evidence-based 
understanding and leading constructive dialogue, 
will build understanding and stimulate dialogue, 
understanding of the evolving challenge of violent 
together with government agencies, the media, 
as well as promoting research and innovative 
extremism and terrorism and their underlying 
civil society and communities. 
thinking, with the goal of helping us to work 
causes is essential if we are to take effective action 
together as a nation. 
to prevent them.
Within government, the multi-agency CTAG is 
responsible for assessing the threat of terrorism, 
Violent extremism is a complex issue and research 
including for setting the national terrorism threat 
into its nature, extent and causes in New Zealand 
level. The NZSIS is responsible for detecting, 
should be multi-disciplinary and the knowledge 
investigating and understanding individual 
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mahi tahi — work together 
Our security agencies work closely together to 
a range of sectors with informed perspectives on 
detect and investigate threats, and to share 
terrorism and violent extremism.
Partnerships are key
information and resources to enable effective 
preventative action. 
New Zealand will also continue to work closely 
with international partners and contribute to 
However, the security agencies cannot manage 
global efforts to counter terrorism and violent 
the risk of terrorism and violent extremism alone, 
extremism. New Zealand is an active participant in 
We work col ectively as a nation to reduce the risk of 
and effective prevention involves many agencies 
regional and multilateral initiatives, and we share 
outside the security sector. Across government, 
information, learning and best-practice with many 
terrorism and violent extremism.
the implementation of this strategy is coordinated 
international jurisdictions and partner nations. 
and driven by the multi-agency CTCC.
New Zealand, alongside France, leads the global 
Objectives:
By taking a partnership approach and building 
He Whenua Taurikura, New Zealand’s hui on 
implementation of the Christchurch Call to Action 
»  Our capabilities across government are 
resilience to terrorism and violent extremism 
countering terrorism and violent extremism, 
to eliminate terrorist and violent extremist content 
integrated, effective, efficient, and reflect 
together, we will reduce the risk for all 
will provide an annual focal point for working 
online. This unique, multi-stakeholder (industry, 
our values.
New Zealanders.
collectively as a nation to reduce the risk. 
governments and civil society) initiative has made 
»  We work in partnership with the public, 
The hui will bring together a wide range of 
considerable progress since its launch in May 
communities, the private sector and 
Government has primary responsibility for 
participants and perspectives from across our 
2019. This includes the reform of the industry-led 
local government.
preventing, preparing for, responding to, and 
society, to collectively examine challenges and 
Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism, and 
»  We work with our international partners to 
recovering from terrorist attacks or similar 
opportunities, share insights and expertise, and 
a detailed collaborative work programme to tackle 
identify and prevent terrorism and violent 
incidents in New Zealand. Government 
advance solutions.
terrorist and violent extremist content online.
extremism of all kinds.
agencies work together on various aspects 
of counter-terrorism, from prevention and 
The National Centre of Excellence for preventing 
Everyone has an important role  preparation to response and recovery. Agencies 
and countering violent extremism will lead a new 
will continue to build partnerships with iwi, hapū, 
Advisory Group on Counter-Terrorism to provide 
to play in preventing harm in 
whānau, communities, business, academia and 
advice to government, including on building 
society to collectively develop our capabilities.
our communities. 
multi-sector engagement and collaboration. This 
group will include broad membership from across 
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whakahōtaetae — prevent 
to identify, record, and manage hate crime, and 
Our work to enhance New Zealand’s capabilities 
deliver a service that is more responsive to victims.
to prevent terrorism and violent extremism will 
Prevention is our priority
also include:
In addition, the government will provide direct 
»  Strengthening our counter-terrorism laws, 
support to communities that may be at higher 
to ensure we are able to act early and 
risk of being targeted by violent extremists. The 
proportionately to help prevent attacks and 
Safer Communities Fund, created in 2019, has 
work to keep people safe.
We focus our efforts and capabilities on effective, 
provided funding for enhancements to physical 
»  Continuing to implement “Protecting Our 
sites for improved security at some places of 
Crowded Places from Attack”, our strategy to 
long-term prevention.
worship across the country. Agencies responsible 
help owners and operators of crowded places 
for security will continue to work in partnership 
to protect the lives of people working in, using 
with these communities to jointly develop ways to 
Objectives:
and identity, social cohesion, and stable and 
and visiting their crowded place.
reduce the risk and build confidence.
»  Enhancing the ability of government and 
»  Our inclusive society addresses the causes of 
inclusive institutions are our greatest strengths.
non-government partners to deter and respond 
violent extremism.
New Zealand Police will also lead He Aranga 
to objectionable extremist content online.
»  We support those in need and promote the 
Promoting and enhancing social cohesion is 
Ake (formerly MACIP), an early intervention 
»  Continuing to combat terrorist financing and 
disengagement and rehabilitation of people 
important for many reasons and will underpin our 
programme. This will aim to prevent terrorism 
support, including through the Anti-Money 
engaged with violent extremist ideologies.
prevention approach, playing an essential role in 
and violent extremism by working with individuals 
Laundering and Countering Financing 
»  Enabled by appropriate legislation, we act early 
helping to address the causes of hate and violent 
displaying concerning behaviour and directing 
of Terrorism Act 2009, and our terrorist 
and proportionately to prevent attacks and 
extremism. 
their behaviour away from violent extremism and 
designations regime.
keep people safe.
violent acts of hate by providing wrap around 
»  We safeguard and build resilience in our 
We will work collectively to build strong, resilient 
services and support.
communities, especially those at higher risk.
communities and whānau that are able to help 
»  Those responsible for the safety of others know 
prevent extremism from arising, and identify, 
and meet their obligations. 
challenge and address it should it emerge. 
Our strongest defence against the corrosive 
We need to ensure the safety and security of all 
effects of terrorism is an inclusive society, resilient 
hapū, iwi, and hāpori in New Zealand. As part 
to hate and violent extremism. Our shared values 
of this, the establishment of the New Zealand 
Police programme Te Raranga, The Weave, will 
make improvements in Police’s frontline practice 
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takatū — ready to  
New Zealand to enable us to act cohesively, 
to discuss the support that they require and how 
responsively, ethically and efficiently. 
it will be provided. 
respond and recover 
An effective response to any emergency relies on 
In many instances, recovery may be helped by 
We’re prepared
leadership, clear plans, and staff at all levels being 
understanding how and why an attack occurred. 
empowered to deliver in their roles. Operational 
The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the terrorist 
agencies involved in the response need to have the 
attack on Christchurch masjidain, which reported 
tools to undertake the functions required of them. 
back in late 2020, was a key milestone in the 
This requires an enabling legislative framework 
recovery from the 15 March 2019 attack. 
We take a victim-centred approach, responding swiftly to 
that is consistent with our democratic values, and 
that is fit-for-purpose to meet the evolving terrorist 
The report, Ko tō tātou kāinga tēnei, made 
protect lives and working in partnership to support recovery.
threat. It also requires information to be available 
recommendations covering both national 
to government agencies, and to be shared 
security, and wider social and community 
between agencies as needed. 
matters. The Government accepted the findings 
Objectives:
In the National Security System, New Zealand 
of the report and agreed in principle to all of the 
»  We focus on protecting lives and 
Police are the operational lead agency for 
Whānau, hapū, iwi, communities, individuals, 
44 recommendations.
supporting victims.
responding to a terrorist incident in New Zealand, 
charitable and volunteer organisations, and Civil 
»  We have the right capabilities and legislation to 
and are trained and well prepared to achieve 
Defence Emergency Management Groups (CDEM 
allow us to respond effectively and efficiently.
this. In any response, New Zealand Police will be 
Groups) also all play important roles in both 
»  Our National Security System and responsible 
supported by other agencies, and ODESC will 
the immediate response to any incident and in 
agencies are coordinated, practiced 
provide coordination and strategic leadership over 
recovery. Local communities can support each 
and responsive.
national security events. 
other, and need to feel supported and enabled by 
»  We look after our people, and support the 
government and system responses.
recovery of individuals and communities.
Terrorism incidents can range from basic 
opportunistic attacks to more complex, 
Supporting the recovery and resilience of 
No country can completely eliminate the risk of a 
multi-faceted incidents using sophisticated 
individuals and communities from a terrorist 
terrorist incident occurring. Terrorism can occur 
weapons. A variety of specific capabilities 
attack is a long-term process, involving existing 
at the extremes of any ideology, cause or belief 
are required for responding to them. These 
support mechanisms and bespoke ones as 
system. We must therefore always be ready to 
capabilities need to be appropriate for 
required. Victims, whānau and communities will 
respond and recover if a terrorist incident occurs.
have the ability to work directly with government 
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New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
Key contributing agencies: CTAG, DPMC (NAB), 
06. Respond to incidents, to protect lives and 
NZSIS, NZ Police
support victims 
»  Respond rapidly and proportionately 
03. Prevent and counter violent extremism, 
to incidents.
to safeguard and build resilience in 
»  Manage incident consequences.
our communities 
»  Support decision-makers.
»  Challenge terrorist and violent 
»  Manage public and targeted communications.
extremist narratives.
»  Manage offenders.
»  Support at-risk groups to resist radicalisation
Key contributing agencies: NZ Police, NZDF, health 
»  Support people with violent extremist 
sector agencies, DPMC, Justice, Corrections
ideologies to disengage.
04
»  Counter the means and support that 
07. Recover from terrorism incidents, to 
enable terrorism.
support a return to wellbeing 
»  Reduce terrorist and violent extremist content, 
»  Support the welfare and recovery of victims, 
and address its consequences.
families, communities and organisations.
Key contributing agencies: social sector agencies, 
»  Improve system preparedness.
Our national capabilities
health sector agencies, NZ Police, DIA, Justice
Key contributing agencies: MSD, health sector 
agencies, NZ Police, DPMC, NEMA, CDEM Groups
04. Detect and investigate threats, to enable 
effective preventive action 
»  Specify and communicate 
Our enabling capabilities 
intelligence requirements.
From addressing the causes of violent extremism to recovery 
»  Generate and manage leads.
01. Coordinate the system, to ensure our 
from incidents
»  Conduct security intelligence and 
efforts are integrated, effective, and reflect 
criminal investigations.
our values 
»  Understand the capabilities and intentions 
»  Set strategic priorities and plans.
Our capabilities are the things we need to have 
01. Address the causes of violent extremism 
of those with terrorist and violent 
»  Coordinate functions, capabilities and change.
in place, and be able to do, to implement this 
and promote social cohesion
extremist ideologies.
»  Monitor and review system performance.
strategy and deliver the vision. 
»  Engage and work effectively with 
»  Generate and disseminate intelligence 
»  Administer legislation and regulation.
our communities.
reporting.
»  Advise and support decision-makers.
There are seven core capabilities, directly 
»  Develop, support and promote social cohesion 
»  Manage residual risks.
delivering the vision across the four pillars of 
Key contributing agencies: DPMC, all agencies
and resilience programmes.
Key contributing agencies: NZSIS,  
mōhio — understand; mahi tahi — work together; 
Key contributing agencies: MSD, Ministry for Ethnic 
NZ Police, GCSB
02. Collaborate and communicate, to enable 
whakahōtaetae — prevent; and takatū — be ready 
Communities (from July 2021), NZ Police
us to work together as a nation to reduce the 
to respond and recover. These are supported by 
05. Protect people and places, to keep 
risk
two enabling capabilities.
02. Understand the threat environment, to 
them safe from harm
»  Manage stakeholder relationships 
inform prevention efforts 
»  Protect, support and enable individuals, 
Whilst government agencies will often have 
and engagement.
communities and other groups at increased 
key contributing roles, these are our national 
»  Research, assess and report strategic trends, 
»  Deliver public information and guidance.
risk of being targeted.
capabilities. A wide range of organisations outside 
threats, risks and mitigations.
»  Build internal system awareness and 
»  Secure events, locations and infrastructure 
central government provide significant aspects of 
»  Understand terrorist and violent 
understanding.
at increased risk of being targeted.
all seven core capabilities.
extremist ideologies.
»  Share and leverage system capabilities
»  Understand the drivers, processes, indicators 
»  Disrupt threats and illegal activity.
»  Contribute to international efforts.
and implications of radicalisation.
Key contributing agencies: NZ Police 
»  Manage, share and utilise information / data.
Key contributing agencies: DPMC, all agencies
20

New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
a terrorism or violent extremism incident.  
Government agencies work co-operatively with 
media to provide timely and correct information 
Private sector
that will support accurate, fair and balanced 
reporting.  Media also have an important role 
Private sector organisations have an important 
to play in fostering greater social cohesion, 
role in building resilience to terrorism and violent 
decreasing the likelihood of inciting radicalisation, 
extremism by ensuring that their spaces and 
avoiding stigmatisation of minority groups, and 
places are not used for the purposes of sharing or 
reducing the intended impact of terror.
promoting violent extremist or terrorist material 
and content, or as spaces for radicalisation. Some 
05
private sector organisations may have crowded 
places or symbolic sites that may face a higher 
level of risk from the threat of terrorism, and need 
International
to take additional protective measures to build the 
physical resilience of their spaces and places.
New Zealand is committed to supporting the 
efforts of the international community to counter 
Roles and responsibilities
New Zealand universities and other research 
terrorism and violent extremism at the global, 
institutes have a key role in building national 
regional and national levels. Government agencies 
understanding and leading constructive dialogue.
actively participate in a wide range of international 
forums and partnerships, including membership 
of the Australia-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism 
We all have a part to play 
Committee (ANZCTC) to ensure the closest 
possible Trans-Tasman coordination and 
cooperation on counter-terrorism matters.
All New Zealanders are responsible for helping 
In an emergency everyone 
Local government
to detect and prevent terrorist attacks, as well 
Local government has an important role in the 
as having a role in preventing and countering 
should phone 111
safety and wellbeing of New Zealand communities. 
violent extremism.
This includes helping to protect crowded places 
If the information is not time-critical, people can 
such as civic spaces, community markets, events 
Security sector
report suspicious behaviour by:
and festivals from terrorist attack or similar 
incidents. Local government can also play a 
Multiple government agencies are responsible 
»  completing a report at 105.police.govt.nz, or 
key role in helping and supporting vulnerable 
for maintaining New Zealand’s security. These 
Our communities, iwi and hapū
calling Police’s non-emergency number 105.
individuals, and in supporting victims, whānau and 
security sector agencies and other agencies 
»  visiting their nearest Police station1.
Those who are closest to vulnerable individuals - 
communities if an incident occurs.
across government work with non-government 
»  phoning Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
such as whānau, friends and community members 
organisations, businesses and communities to 
»  contacting the NZSIS on 0800 747 224 or via 
- are the ones most likely to identify concerning 
ensure we have a joined up approach to any 
their public contribution form2.
behaviours and be able to seek help and support. 
terrorism threat.
Community and iwi leaders, faith communities 
Reporting suspicious or concerning behaviour can 
and interfaith groups, civil society organisations 
»  New Zealand Police: Community engagement, 
save lives. 
and others across our diverse society can all 
Media
prevention, intelligence gathering and 
If you see something, say something.
have a positive, constructive role in preventing 
analysis, investigation, emergency response, 
New Zealand’s media play a critical role providing 
and countering violent extremism and keeping all 
working with domestic and offshore partners, 
information to the public, including during 
1  police.govt.nz/contact-us/stations
New Zealanders safe.
2  providinginformation.nzsis.govt.nz
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23

New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
operational lead for reducing risk and 
»  Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade 
responding to terrorism threats domestically.
(MFAT): Aligning counter-terrorism priorities, 
»  New Zealand Security Intelligence 
foreign policy interests and international 
Service (NZSIS): Detecting, investigating and 
obligations to champion our values globally and 
understanding terrorism threats.
help keep New Zealanders safe offshore.
»  Combined Threat Assessment Group 
»  Ministry of Justice: Ensuring 
(CTAG): Providing terrorism threat assessments, 
counter-terrorism legislation is fit for purpose 
including for setting the national terrorism 
and reflects our values.
threat level.
»  New Zealand Customs Service: Enhancing 
»  Government Communications Security 
New Zealand security through risk identification 
Bureau (GCSB): Providing specialist intelligence 
and mitigation across borders.
support to NZSIS and New Zealand Police 
»  Ministry of Transport: Supporting delivery of 
terrorism investigations.
a resilient and secure transport system.
»  National Assessments Bureau (NAB, within 
»  Ministry of Defence: Ensuring that 
06
DPMC): Providing independent and impartial 
New Zealand’s defence activities reduce the 
assessments on events and developments 
terrorism threat to New Zealand’s interests, 
relevant to New Zealand’s national security and 
and that the Defence Force is well prepared to 
international relations.
support Government’s response to terrorism 
Being aware, engaged and  
 
events in New Zealand and offshore.
»  New Zealand Defence Force: Providing 
specialist tactical and operational capability to 
staying safe
counter and respond to terrorist threats.
Public sector
»  Department of Internal Affairs (DIA): 
Deterring and responding to objectionable 
The Government has primary responsibility 
violent extremist content online.
for preventing, preparing for, responding 
What happens in the event of an attack 
to, and recovering from terrorist attacks or 
Other key agencies with roles and responsibilities 
similar incidents in New Zealand. We take a 
in countering terrorism and violent extremism 
The overall aim of any counter-terrorism response 
The government’s response to national security 
strategic, multi-agency approach to countering 
include the Ministry of Social Development 
is securing a swift resolution that reduces the risk 
incidents is outlined in the National Security 
terrorism and violent extremism, with roles and 
(MSD), the Ministry for Ethnic Communities 
to the public and ensures as little disruption and 
System (NSS) Handbook. In the event of a terrorist 
responsibilities that include:
(from July 2021), the Ministry of Health and wider 
distress as possible. 
threat or attack, the NSS provides a structure 
health sector, the Department of Corrections, 
that enables effective decision-making at the 
»  Department of the Prime Minister and 
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and the National 
appropriate levels and a coordinated government 
Cabinet (DPMC): Connecting and coordinating 
Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
response.
New Zealand’s counter-terrorism system. 
We take a victim-centred 
This includes coordinating the delivery of this 
approach, responding swiftly 
New Zealand Police have primary responsibility for 
national countering terrorism and violent 
the operational response to a domestic terrorist 
extremism strategy, and activating coordination 
to protect lives and working in 
incident. The frontline response (operational, and 
mechanisms if a terror attack or similar 
management of consequences) to an incident 
incident occurs. 
partnership to support recovery. is typically managed locally or regionally, and 
supported at the national level. 
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25

New Zealand's Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy
However, the complexity of terrorism requires that 
New Zealand Police are trained and well prepared 
the Government be directly involved to harness 
to lead the response to a terrorism incident, 
all national resources to respond to an incident, 
where the focus is to ensure public safety and 
which may have wide-ranging implications.
protect human life.
How do we respond?
New Zealand Police will provide advice 
and information to the public via these 
In the event of an attack
»  Emergency services respond to any incident 
communication channels:
to preserve life, neutralise the threat from 
»  Twitter: @nzpolice
attacker(s) and secure the incident site(s).
»  Facebook: New Zealand Police
»  Public statements are made by New Zealand 
»  Website: police.govt.nz
Police and/or ministers.
»  The National Security System is ‘activated’.
The response to an incident will often involve 
»  The Prime Minister and ministers are 
multiple other government departments, 
continually updated on the incident.
emergency services, local government, and 
businesses.
Move quickly and quietly away from 
danger, but only if it is safe to do so.
ESCAPE
Stay out of sight and silence  
HIDE
Our response objectives
your mobile phone.
Call the Police by dial ing 111  
TELL
when it is safe.
Minimise loss of life  
Treat any casualties. Inform 
Contain the crime scene and 
though rapid response.
and support families.
start the Police investigation.
police.govt.nz/crowdedplaces
Identify, locate and detain 
Clarify that the incident 
Reassure the public, 
the people responsible.
is over and no follow‑up 
including to support  
attacks are anticipated.
inter‑community relations.
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2021 © Crown Copyright
Published by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC), June 2021. 
dpmc.govt.nz • [DPMC request email]