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Defence Act 1990

Constitutional position of armed forces

5: Power to raise armed forces

You could also call this:

"The Governor-General can create and manage armed forces to protect New Zealand."

Illustration for Defence Act 1990

The Governor-General can raise and maintain armed forces for you in New Zealand or elsewhere. This is for several purposes, including defending New Zealand and its interests. The armed forces can also be used to help other organisations, like the United Nations, or to assist during emergencies.

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View the original legislation for this page at https://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0120/latest/link.aspx?id=DLM205882.

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4: Application of Act, or

"This law applies to New Zealand and its people, both at home and overseas."

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6: Further powers of Governor-General, or

"The Governor-General's extra powers over New Zealand's armed forces"

Part 1Constitutional position of armed forces

5Power to raise armed forces

  1. The Governor-General may from time to time, in the name and on behalf of the Sovereign, continue to raise and maintain armed forces, either in New Zealand or elsewhere, for the following purposes:

  2. the defence of New Zealand, and of any area for the defence of which New Zealand is responsible under any Act:
    1. the protection of the interests of New Zealand, whether in New Zealand or elsewhere:
      1. the contribution of forces under collective security treaties, agreements, or arrangements:
        1. the contribution of forces to, or for any of the purposes of, the United Nations, or in association with other organisations or States and in accordance with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations:
          1. the provision of assistance to the civil power either in New Zealand or elsewhere in time of emergency:
            1. the provision of any public service.

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