New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has revealed that there were more New Zealanders who were planning to fight in Syria. According to reports, Mr Key has triggered changes in the Security Intelligence Service laws after moving away from tradition by giving up the daily supervision of the Security Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Security Bureau.

Reports said that Mr Key is preparing for a major speech when Parliament resumes to address the perception that New Zealand may be relatively safe from terrorist threats. A Stuff report said the speech may indicate the prime minister's intention to take a more aggressive stance on security and intelligence issues after most of National's second term in office was deluged with controversies involving New Zealand's spy agency.

Mr Key has warned that New Zealand is not safe from the risk of terror threats. He mentioned reports of Kiwis hoping to fight alongside the militants of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. He said he hopes to inform people about the risks of being in the presence of foreign fighters. The prime minister believes that there is no doubt of the reforms needed by the Security Intelligence legislation.

The small group of New Zealanders was reported to be fighting with ISIS in Syria, but Mr Key said the number is more than people would have expected. He announced that Attorney-General Chris Finlayson will now be responsible for the SIS and GCSB, but the prime minister will retain the over-arching role of Minister for National Security and Intelligence.

Opposition parties view the decision as Mr Key's abdication from the responsibility of national security. However, Mr Key reiterated that the announcement does not mean that he would be spending less time on matters of national security and intelligence. He explained it was only in recognition of the growing importance of national security and intelligence as the world becomes "a more uncertain place."

Meanwhile, Mr Key has confirmed that New Zealand is expecting an invitation for the country to join the international coalition against ISIS. The prime minister has been hesitant to express its support to the U.S.-led airstrikes against ISIS since he needed to seek advice and consult with officials. He said deploying troops might be among the options to be considered, but an assessment must first be done.