FAQs for Terrorist Designations

Why does the government designate terrorist entities?

New Zealand is strongly committed to the international campaign against  terrorism. The designation of terrorist entities is one measure we can take  domestically to contribute to the international campaign against terrorism in  accordance with our international obligations. There are two relevant United  Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions.  

First, New Zealand is specifically obliged to take action against those terrorist  entities listed by the UNSC 1267 Committee. UN listed entities are defined  as designated terrorist entities in the TSA and so engage the criminal  provisions of the TSA without the need for  further designation under s 22.  The UNSC listing process involves only Al-Qaida and the Taliban and associated  individuals and organisations.

Secondly, and by contrast, while UNSC Resolution 1373 obliges New Zealand  (inter  alia) to outlaw the financing of, participation in and recruitment to, terrorist entities, it does not specifically identify those entities. The  Resolution effectively leaves it to Member States to identify the entities against which they  should act.

While the risk of a terrorist attack in New Zealand is low, we are determined that  New Zealand, and New Zealanders, be neither the target nor source of terrorist  activities.

What does a terrorist designation mean?

A designation under New Zealand legislation, as well as freezing the assets of  terrorist entities, makes it a criminal offence to participate in or support the  activities of the designated terrorist entity.  This includes in particular dealing with  the property of the designated terrorist entity or making property or financial  services available to the entity.  Other support for terrorist activities such as  fundraising, and recruiting or harbouring terrorists is a criminal offence whether a  group is designated or not.

How can I find out if an individual or group overseas or in New Zealand is a  designated terrorist entity?

Individuals and groups designated as terrorist entities are listed on the Police  web site.  Entities designated by the New Zealand government under UNSC  Resolution 1373 are also listed in the Government Gazette at the time of  designation.

If I transfer funds to an individual or group overseas, is it my responsibility or the bank's to check if the recipient is associated with a designated terrorist entity?

It is your responsibility to check the legality of the group you wish to transfer funds to. This is not the bank's responsibility.

What should I do if I suspect an individual or group in New Zealand is associated with a terrorist entity?

You should contact the Police and report what you know about the entity.

What risk do these designated terrorist entities pose to New Zealanders travelling or doing business overseas?

You should check www.safetravel.govt.nz for travel security information in overseas countries. This information is made available through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.