23 February 2023
Adam Irish
[FYI request #21812 email]
Ref: OIA-2022/23-0572
Dear Adam Irish
Official Information Act request relating to Security threats
Thank you for your Official Information Act 1982 (the Act) request received on 13 February
2023. You requested:
1. What steps are being taken to enhance the country's defense capabilities in light of
current global security threats?
2. How does the government plan to address the potential threat of conflict with the
People's Republic of China and maintain regional stability?
3. What is the current defense budget as a percentage of GDP and how does this
compare to the recommended 2% for NATO partners?
4. What measures are being taken to modernize and update the country's military
equipment and technology?
5. How does the government plan to enhance the readiness and training of New
Zealand's military personnel?
6. What is the government's position on New Zealand's ANZUS treaty obligations and
how does it plan to address these commitments in the event of a conflict?
7. How is the government working with international partners to enhance regional
security and promote peace and stability?
8. What is the government's strategy for addressing the threat of cyber attacks and
ensuring the country's critical infrastructure is protected?
I believe that the information you have requested in parts 1, 2, 3, and 4, is more closely
connected with the functions of the Ministry of Defence. Accordingly, I have decided under
section 14(b)(ii) of the Act to transfer these parts of your request to the Ministry of Defence.
I believe that the information you have requested in part 5 is more closely connected with the
functions of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). Accordingly, I have decided under
section 14(b)(ii) of the Act to transfer this part of your request to NZDF.
Executive Wing, Parliament Buildings, Wellington, New Zealand 6011
4708396
64 4 817 9698 www.dpmc.govt.nz
I believe that the information you have requested in parts 6 and 7 is more closely connected
with the functions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Accordingly, I have
decided under section 14(b)(ii) of the Act to transfer these parts of your request to MFAT.
The Ministry of Defence, New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
Trade have the usual timeframes under the Act from receipt of this transfer to make a
decision on your request.
Regarding part 8 of your request; cyber security is fundamental to a robust and thriving
society. The Cyber Security Strategy 2019 outlines the areas where Government will
prioritise action and how we will work together with individuals, businesses, and communities
to ensure that New Zealand is confident and secure in the digital world. The strategy is
publicly available and can be accessed from the following link:
New Zealand's Cyber Security Strategy 2019 | Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
(DPMC)
You have the right to ask the Ombudsman to investigate and review this response under
section 28(3) of the Act.
This response may be published on the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s
website during our regular publication cycle. Typically, information is released monthly, or as
otherwise determined. Your personal information including name and contact details will be
removed for publication.
Yours sincerely
Tony Lynch
Deputy Chief Executive
National Security Group
4708396
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