MFAT advances the Government’s international priorities.

MFAT interprets changes, provide advice to the Government on their implications, and then act to promote and protect New Zealand's interests. By building connections and influence in other countries it secure the outcomes that matter to New Zealand.

MFAT seeks to deliver value to New Zealand and New Zealanders, through:

• improved prosperity for New Zealand and the region
• the stability, security and resilience of the country, the people and the region
• leadership by amplifying New Zealand’s influence and standing in the world
• kaitiakitanga or stewardship, by delivering solutions to global challenges for the benefit of present and future generations.