People's right to privacy on the Internet could change, after several governments -- including New Zealand's -- made another plea to be allowed access to encrypted content.
Minister of Justice Andrew Little signed a joint statement alongside the other five eyes countries, as well as India and Japan.
It says while encryption plays an important role in protecting personal data, it can also used to hide illicit material such as child pornography or terror communication.
He wants technology companies legally bound to allow access to encryption when authorised to by law enforcement.
Mr Little, who is also in charge of New Zealand's spy agencies, says governments have an obligation to keep their citizens safe from harm, and this proposal is in the public interest.
