NZCGS was established in Waiheke, New Zealand in 2013 by Founding Director Dr Kennedy Graham. It focuses on research in disarmament, sustainability, peace and security, human rights and international organisations. NZCGS runs four thematic programmes: global citizenship and education, global law and governance; global peace and security; global sustainability and climate. It also holds an annual Global Affairs Lecture on one of these themes. Since 2020, the Centre operates virtually with its output including outreach programmes for secondary and tertiary students, webinars, public meetings, peer-reviewed reports and policy briefs. NZCGS is governed by a Board of Trustees supported by an International Advisory Panel.