The Free Speech Union was formed:

• To defend and promote the rights of New Zealanders to freely seek, receive and impart information.
• To raise understanding among New Zealanders of the essential character of freedom of speech as: 
  • a fundamental human right;
  • a necessity to the preservation and exercise of other freedoms;
  • a necessity for the healthy functioning and preservation of our democracy against the abuses of power;
  • a necessity for the vigorous testing and development of our intellectual and academic institutions and culture.