NZ intelligence agencies say they had no intel on Christchurch terror attack as Government announces inquiry

Kiwi intelligence agencies say they hadn't received, or collected, any intelligence on the Christchurch terror attack before it took place on Friday.

In a statement released this evening, the Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) said it usually doesn't comment on "operational details" but have done given the "nature of the situation".

"I can confirm GCSB had not collected or received from partners any relevant intelligence ahead of the terrorist attacks," said Andrew Hampton, Director-General of GCSB.

The GCSB says it's welcoming a Government inquiry into the Christchurch terrorist attack.

The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) has also commented after the announcement of the inquiry.

“I welcome the inquiry announced today. There are important questions which need answers. We embrace the opportunity to learn from this terrible experience.

"Our work must often be carried out in secret, but I am a big believer in transparency where possible," Director-General of Security Rebecca Kitteridge said.

The organisation also say the accused gunman Brenton Tarrant was not on their radar.

“The person charged with murder has not ever been brought to the attention of NZSIS and is not known to NZSIS or our Australian counterpart," Ms Kitteridge said.