It was recently in the spotlight for investigating the Israeli backpackers in the aftermath of the February earthquake in Canterbury. It found no evidence of any improper behaviour or threat to security.
The online form says: "As part of the community, you may have information which can contribute to defending and enhancing New Zealand's security, reputation, economic well-being and way of life."
It asks you to notify the SIS "if you believe you have: information of national security concern; or have seen or heard something suspicious that the NZSIS may be interested in". The submitter must classify information as "important and urgent", "important but not urgent", or of "general concern".
Identifying yourself and supplying contact information are optional.
The online form will work in tandem with the freephone line (0800 SIS 224), in place since 2001.
Dr Tucker said the SIS needed to have an online connection to the public to bring it in line with international practices. It was possible that the online form would lead to a flood of new information, he said.
"[That] needs to be balanced against providing the public with a discreet and effective means of passing information they feel is of genuine concern."
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