New Zealand is set to introduce legislation by July that will govern ground-based space facilities, aiming to curb potential foreign interference, Space Minister Judith Collins announced.

The upcoming regulatory framework, first hinted at in late 2024, follows warnings from New Zealand’s intelligence agency last September about attempts by overseas actors to establish space operations that could support foreign military activities counter to New Zealand’s interests.

In a statement, Collins said the new laws would target infrastructure involved in spacecraft tracking, control, space surveillance, and the relay of data to and from orbiting craft — areas vulnerable to exploitation.

As a member of the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance alongside the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada, New Zealand is sharpening its security stance. Though neither Collins nor the earlier report explicitly named China, the intelligence agency noted that China poses a “complex” threat, while cautioning that other nations also engage in hostile activities.

Thanks to its geographic position and consistently clear skies, New Zealand is a strategic hub for satellite launches and monitoring, attracting organizations such as the European Space Agency.

The forthcoming bill will require operators of space-related ground infrastructure to register their facilities and establish stringent protective security and due diligence protocols.

“This new regime sends an unmistakable signal: New Zealand is serious about protecting its national security and will take decisive action when needed,” Collins stated.