The Government says it has a duty to take the steps it is on changes to national security and joining the fight against ISIS.

Military advisors are being sent to Iraq, the power to suspend passports are to be strengthened and the surveillance powers of the SIS are to be extended

Minister in Charge of the GCSB and SIS, Chris Finlayson says the Government's steps are in line with its international obligations.

"The problems we confront are not ours alone. They span countries and they span borders. We would be neglecting our responsibilities not to address them."

The Government's defending its plan to allow the SIS to undertake urgent surveillance without a warrant.

Under anti-foreign fighter measures, the Government wants to allow the SIS to conduct such emergency surveillance for up to 48 hours.

Mr Finlayson says it's not a sweeping additional power for the SIS and it's not envisaged it'll be used often.

He's downplaying any chance of it being abused.

"If we do not agree the surveillance was urgent or warranted, a warrant will not be signed. The material must then be destroyed. There is a disincentive to use the power for anything other than truly urgent situations."

Two political leaders believe a Parliamentary vote on any formal involvement in Iraq could be considered.

The Government's sending military advisors to Iraq to gauge what non-combat response New Zealand should provide in the fight against ISIS militants

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters believes a decision could be voted on.

"The Canadians went and put it to their Parliament in a free vote, so did the British, and why can't we?"

And United Future Leader Peter Dunne also sees merit in the idea.

"There could well be if there was a specific decision being made that a vote would be the appropriate way of resolving that."

However, the Prime Minister's so far ruled out a vote taking place.

Mr Key also described described ISIS as a real threat.

But Labour MP David Shearer is sceptical.

"I do believe that Mr Key has a habit of talking about these sorts of issues on breakfast radio or whatever...in a way that helps him politically. Doesn't give much comfort to New Zealanders."

The Maori Party's opposed to any combat deployment - something now ruled out by the Government, but 10 military advisors are to be sent to Iraq

But party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell also has reservations about Kiwi troops being used to train Iraqi counterparts.

"Because we've seen already in some of the exercises that some of the people involved actually turn around and end up fighting back against some of those people who've been helping them. So there's some concerns in the practical nature."