An 18-year-old South Auckland man has been charged after making threats against the Government in an online video.

The threats, posted on YouTube earlier this month, included claims that explosives had been hidden in New Zealand Government buildings.

The video also said Government and media websites would be hacked.

Police say the threats were made in an apparent protest against the new Copyright (Infringing File Sharing) Amendment Act.

The man has been charged with Threats of Harm to People/Property.

Acting Detective Inspector Pete Jones of Counties Manukau CIB says police drew on the expertise of the National Cyber Crime Centre and the Electronic Crime Laboratory in locating the man.

"Such threats are taken very seriously by police and this investigation demonstrates police has the expertise and resources to trace those who make such threats on the internet."

The teenager is due to appear in Manukau District court tomorrow.