New Zealand’s intelligence agency has renewed its warning to local councils about the potential risks of foreign interference linked to sister-city relationships, even as communities across the country continue to mark decades-long partnerships.
The caution comes alongside the government’s latest quarterly plan, which includes legislation to criminalise foreign interference and strengthen espionage laws from July.
Andrew Hampton, director-general of the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS), told councillors in an October webinar to be alert when assessing sister-city requests.
He earlier reminded ethnic community leaders in Auckland of their role in protecting New Zealand’s interests by maintaining open dialogue and sharing concerns.
Sister-city ties, formalised between local governments to encourage cultural and economic exchanges, are widespread in New Zealand. According to Global Cities New Zealand, 53 councils maintain 154 active partnerships with cities across Asia, Europe, and the Pacific.
These relationships have brought student exchanges, cultural festivals, and tourism opportunities — but they also carry risks.
An NZSIS spokesperson told RNZ that while such ties can be valuable, “a small number of foreign states” may attempt to exploit them. “Foreign interference is not normal diplomacy,” the spokesperson said. “It involves deceptive or coercive acts aimed at influencing or undermining New Zealand’s national interests.”
The agency’s 2024 threat report highlighted local governments as prime targets, given their influence over ports, public spaces, and strategic resources.
Despite the warnings, councils say the benefits remain significant. Invercargill, for example, has sister-city links with Kumagaya, Japan, since 1993, and Suqian, China, since 2010. Councillor Darren Ludlow said the relationships have delivered cultural and educational value, from student exchanges to Japanese and Chinese gardens in the city.
“We need to be aware of the risks,” he said, “but also recognise the opportunities.”
Tauranga, which will mark 40 years of partnership with Yantai, China, in 2026, sees its sister-city ties as vital for attracting talent and enriching the community.
A spokesperson acknowledged the need for vigilance but said the economic, cultural, and social benefits could not be ignored.
Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate said such partnerships were part of New Zealand’s broader diplomacy.
Hamilton’s ties span China, Japan, Belgium, and the United States, each serving different purposes — from education and student recruitment to historical connections. Councillor Ewan Wilson noted that Chinese student exchanges alone bring millions of dollars annually into Hamilton’s economy.
Southgate added that councils work closely with MFAT and the NZSIS to manage risks: “Every trip and contact is checked with government agencies.
Ultimately, national security sits with the government, but councils must play their part.”
The NZSIS has issued security guidance for local authorities and continues to raise awareness of how foreign states may seek influence.
While risks remain, councils argue that with proper safeguards, sister-city partnerships can continue to strengthen international ties and deliver tangible benefits for communities.