A new permanent FBI office has been officially opened in Wellington, strengthening ties between New Zealand and the United States on issues of national security and transnational crime.

Minister Responsible for the GCSB and NZSIS Judith Collins and Police Minister Mark Mitchell welcomed the upgrade during a visit from FBI Director Kash Patel, who inaugurated the new office at the US Embassy earlier today and installed a permanent Legal Attaché (Legat) position.

Collins said the move reflects the strength of the Five Eyes partnership and enhances New Zealand’s safety and security.

“We exchanged a range of insights on areas such as transnational organised crime, counter-terrorism, cyber-security and espionage,” she said.

“NZSIS and GCSB relationships with overseas partners like the FBI, as well as their support to New Zealand Police, are an important part of how the intelligence agencies deliver on their mission to keep New Zealand safe and secure.”

Mitchell said Patel’s visit sends a clear message to criminals that they cannot hide behind borders.

“New Zealand Police are continually working with their overseas counterparts like the FBI to catch those engaged in illegal, harmful activities such as drug smuggling and online child exploitation, as well as disrupting and preventing this offending from happening in the first place,” he said.

“Police are part of a global effort on law enforcement. Director Patel’s visit was an excellent opportunity to share our common concerns while reinforcing the importance of New Zealand and the US working together to protect our citizens.”

Patel is the most senior member of the US administration to visit New Zealand since the start of President Donald Trump’s second term in office.