The primary legislation concerning the raising and maintaining of New Zealand’s armed forces is the Defence Act 1990. That Act confirms the purposes of the armed forces, constitutes the NZDF, affirms that the armed forces are under Ministerial authority, defines the roles and relationships of senior officials, and makes provisions, generally, in respect of the establishment, control and activities of the NZDF, and related matters.
Under the Defence Act 1990, New Zealand’s Armed Forces are raised and maintained for:
- the defence of New Zealand and the protection of its interests, whether in New Zealand or elsewhere;
- the contribution of forces under collective security treaties, agreements or arrangements; and
- the contribution of forces to the UN or other organisations or States for operations in accordance with the principles of the charter of the UN.
The Defence Act 1990 also allows the Armed Forces to be made available for the performance of public services and assistance to the civil power in time of emergency, either in New Zealand or elsewhere.
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