Country's readiness for terrorists to be tested

New Zealand's ability to cope with a terrorist attack will be put to the test over 72 hours from tomorrow.

Exercise Lawman 2004 will start in Christchurch. Several fictitious "serious" events will mobilise security forces and test their ability to deal with a terrorist strike.

It will involve police, the Defence Force, Security Intelligence Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

It is the latest in a series of similar exercises which began in the mid-1970s, police Assistant Commissioner Gavin McFadyen said.

"Counter-terrorism exercises are a Government requirement," he said.

Exercises were designed to test and give practice to the Government and emergency services.

"Everyone takes it very seriously. Several ministers of the Crown are participating."

Most of the activity would be in Christchurch. People should not be concerned at unusual levels of police and emergency service activity in the city, Mr McFadyen said.

Wellington would be involved in the political and diplomatic dimensions of the exercise.

- NZPA