New Zealand Firearms Laws

It is very important if you are travelling to New Zealand from overseas and you want to bring your own firearm into the country that you check out all the rules and regulations surrounding the temporary importation of firearms.

It is also important to check with the airline you are travelling with what their policy is on carrying firearms.

The Arms Amendment Act 1992 relating to ownership and use of firearms in New Zealand can be researched at www.legislation.govt.nz this has the information you will need in regards to New Zealand firearms laws.

When you arrive in New Zealand you must:

  1. Declare all firearms to the New Zealand Customs Officials
  2. Declare all firearms to the New Zealand Police
  3. Apply to the Airport Police on arrival for a “permit to import”
  4. Apply for a Tourist Firearm Licence, which is valid for one year.

As long as your firearm is an acceptable type to be brought into New Zealand you should receive your "permit to import" straight away. To then get your Tourist Firearm Licence it will cost you NZ$25.00 and you will need to provide your passport and evidence that you have a firearms licence that is valid in your country.

If you wish to make sure that the firearm(s) you are intending to bring into New Zealand are acceptable then you can write to the address below stating your intention to bring the firearm and also advising them of the make and model and any further details.

The Coordinator Licensing and Vetting
Police National Headquarters
PO Box 3017
Wellington
New Zealand
Telephone +64 4 474 9539 Fax +64 4 499 1065
Email: firearms@police.govt.nz