NZ Firearms Licence Requirements - Summary & comments (Part1)

New Zealand Firearms Licence requirements.

Anyone may use a sporting firearm without a licence if they are under the immediate supervision of a licence holder who must be able to reach and control the firearm.

Anyone over the age of 16 needs a licence to have and use unsupervised both sporting rifles & shotguns and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles. Persons between 16 and 18 need a licence to use an ordinary airgun.

There is a printed Police Arms Code available from Police Stations that outlines police requirements and safety rules. There is also 'online' information that can be printed.

The first step is enquire at your nearest Police station to arrange to attend a Firearms Safety Course and sit the safety test. If you prefer, there is an Open Polytechnic Course 'Firearms Legislation and Safety' (Course Code US9131) that on completion of Part A, you will get a Mountain Safety Council Certificate that can be used in your licence application. - This excellent course includes study of firearms, cartridges and reloading – but currently costs NZ$314..

Fill out the Application form and take to a Post Shop and pay the application fee (currently NZ126.50)

Take to your Police Station:

Application Form (and fee receipt).

Old licence (if applicable).

Safety Course Certificate.

Two passport photos.

Three identity documents, (Passport, Drivers Licence, Birth Certificate, Credit / Bank Card.)

Full contact details for two (pre-arranged) referees – one related, one not.

Police will arrange to interview your referees, - and visit you at home to interview you and check your firearms security arrangements.

The police comment that you will have difficulty being deemed 'fit and proper' if you have a history of violence, repeated involvement with drugs, been irresponsible with alcohol, a relationship with unsuitable persons, or have indicated an intent to use a firearm for self defence.(This last contention conflicts with the law as stated in the 1980 Crimes Act - but clearly states the Police requirement).

All firearms must be kept in secure storage of a standard that meets the Arms Regulations. Ammunition must be kept seperately. - They require that ammo is not locked-up with firearms.

This is all fairly involved and expensive – but wait till you see what is involved in being approved and endorsed for restricted weapons like pistols, Military Styled Semi-Autos and collectors – in part 2. - but it is all do-able provided you are patient and determined..

Marty K.
After researching & writing 1,036 blogs I've got something NEW to try .. I've signed-up to Patreon. - In over five years I've not made one cent from this .. NOW you can send me a wee support $ - starting from $1. to get all this stuff from New Zealand - over a year that's nearly the price of one Shooting magazine. - Am I worth it?

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