The arrest of a 19-year-old in Israel follows a spate of telephone threats to New Zealand schools.

The teenager is suspected of being the kingpin behind a wave of threats made to New Zealand, Australia, the United States and Canada.

New Zealand police started a investigation in response to threats made to a large number of schools here last year.

As a result of these enquiries, they provided information to the Israeli authorities.

Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson said the threats caused considerable disruption and fear - and he hopes today's arrest brings some comfort to New Zealand victims.

He said the arrest shows the value of the strong international partnerships New Zealand police have built with overseas law enforcement jurisdictions.