Foreign intelligence spymaster to be new SIS head

Warren Tucker

The spymaster in charge of New Zealand's foreign intelligence security agency will be the new head of the Security Intelligence Service, the Government announced yesterday.

Warren Tucker has spent nearly 25 years working in New Zealand's intelligence and security agencies and has been the director of the Government Communications Security Bureau, which monitors foreign intelligence relevant to New Zealand, since 1999.

The SIS focuses on security threats from within New Zealand, rather than external threats.

Dr Tucker will start his new role in November, replacing present director of security Richard Woods, who is retiring at the end of October.

Prime Minister Helen Clark said: "Dr Tucker has a distinguished record as a public servant, with a particular focus in the security and defence areas."

Dr Tucker said he recognised the important role of intelligence and security services in "this unsettled world".

"Our national and sovereign interests depend on being well-informed, and remaining alert to changing circumstance and fresh dangers.

"I look forward to making the transition in November."

Peter Cozens, the executive director of Victoria University's School of Government, said Dr Tucker was an appropriate choice as the successor to the director's chair.

"Dr Tucker is well able to meet the responsibilities of the appointment and has a very impressive background."