All New Zealanders have a role to play in helping prevent and detect potential attacks in crowded places.

The Protecting Our Crowded Places from Attack Strategy, developed by the New Zealand Government, provides practical guidance to owners, operators, and stakeholders to:

• Protect lives and public spaces

• Preserve the function and enjoyment of places communities value

• Uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring the rights of all New Zealanders are respected

This strategy promotes a consistent, nationwide approach where protective measures are proportional to the threat and practical to implement.

It is built on four key pillars:

1. Strengthening public–private partnerships

2. Sharing intelligence, information, and guidance

3. Implementing effective protective security

4. Enhancing response capabilities and resilience

📎 Download the Strategy – NZ Police

Owners and operators of crowded places play a key role in keeping people safe. Their responsibilities include:

• Understanding the threat environment and associated risks

• Integrating protective security into architectural design, health and safety, and emergency planning

• Staying informed and connected through public–private partnerships and relevant security networks

While terrorism remains a key consideration, the broader threat environment includes a range of risks that can impact crowded places. These may include:

• Targeted violence (e.g. knife or firearm attacks)

• Vehicle-ramming incidents

• Hostile reconnaissance or surveillance

• Disruptive protests or civil unrest

• Natural hazards and large-scale emergencies

New Zealand’s national terrorism threat level is assessed and set by the Director-General of Security, based on advice from the Combined Threat Assessment Group (CTAG).

📎 View the current threat level – NZSIS

A range of legislation underpins the management of risks and protection of information in crowded places. Key Acts include:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 – sets duties to manage risks to workers and the public

• Terrorism Suppression Act 2002 – defines and addresses terrorism-related offences and powers

• Privacy Act 2020 – governs the collection, use, and sharing of personal information

These laws form the regulatory framework that supports effective planning, protective security, and responsible information handling.

Explore real-world incidents and major events that highlight the importance of security planning in crowded places:

• Westfield Bondi Junction Attack – rapid response and post-incident recovery

• FIFA Women’s World Cup – protective strategies at host venues

• Manchester Arena Bombing – lessons in emergency preparedness and public safety

• Auckland Pride Parade – community-focused security planning in action

• UK Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) – legislative developments shaping event security

📎 Read more on ProtectUK

Stay informed with the latest insights, stories, and expert commentary on protective security in crowded places:

• 📎 The Planned Terror Attack – A Wake-Up Call
  A real-world example underscoring the importance of preparedness and vigilance.

• 📎 Leadership in Protective Security – Border Management Magazine
  Exploring strategic leadership and innovation in managing security risks.

• Podcasts and Thought Leadership (Coming Soon)
  Conversations with experts on evolving threats, best practices, and community resilience.