Parliament bill

Arms Bill

Royal assent · Introduced by Hon Nicole McKee · ACT Party

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July 29, 2026 19:00
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July 29, 2026 19:00
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What this bill does

The bill passed its second reading 67–55; the vote was not unanimous. According to Government statements in Hansard, successive changes left the existing arms law fragmented, confusing, and often unworkable. The bill aims to promote safe possession and use of arms and prevent their possession and use for criminal activity. The bill replaces the existing framework with an Arms Regulator and a broad licensing, endorsement, and permit system. Firearm owners, businesses, and suppliers must meet eligibility, secure-storage, record-keeping, and approval requirements; restricted items require additional authority.

AI-assisted summary based on the bill text and linked Hansard debates.

Latest voting result

July 21, 2026
Second reading: Passed Party vote

Ayes 67 · Noes 55

  • National Party Aye · 48 votes
  • ACT Party Aye · 11 votes
  • NZ First Party Aye · 8 votes
  • Labour Party No · 34 votes
  • Green Party No · 15 votes
  • Te Pāti Māori No · 4 votes
  • Ferris, Tākuta No
  • Kapa-Kingi, Mariameno No

View the vote in Hansard

Arguments raised in Parliament

AI-assisted summary of the linked Hansard debates. Each point is grounded in the cited transcript.

Arguments for

The independent Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand regulator will separate licensing, education, compliance, and service from Police enforcement, allowing Police to concentrate on gangs, criminals, and illegally held firearms while creating clearer accountability.

Extending the period for licensed businesses to retain restricted firearms for repair from seven to 21 days will accommodate delayed parts and specialist gunsmith workloads, reducing unnecessary paperwork without compromising public safety.

The bill’s clearer and modernised rules will help regulate lawful users while making criminal non-compliance easier to prosecute and providing greater visibility of firearm ownership.

Arguments against

Creating a regulator outside Police will impose about $45 million plus unspecified IT contingency costs for a structure opponents say is unnecessary and could reduce community safety.

Nuance and qualifications

The new regulator’s arms officers will conduct licensing inspections but not enforcement searches or seizures, with Police intended to retain enforcement powers and provide assistance where safety concerns arise.

Bill text

Arms Bill

Version published July 23, 2026 00:00.

Arms Bill The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows: 1 Title This Act is the Arms Act 2025 . 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on 23 September 2026 , with some exceptions. The following sections come into force on 23 July 2027 : Ammunition sellers a sections 171 to 174 175 : b section 176 : c section 341(1)(a)(v) and (b)(iv) . The following sections come into force on 23 February 2028 : Animal and biosecurity controller multi-user agreements a section 32 : b section 35 : c section 273 : d section 349(4) , definition of temporary transfer, paragraph (b) : Exception to requirement for licensed business to have permit to possess pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm for purpose of repair or modification e section 21(2) : f section 33(2) : Duration of visitor licences g section 130(1)(b) and (3) : Suspension of licences h section 145(1)(a)(iv) : Storage of vital parts i section 189(3) : Duration of endorsements on firearms licence held by animal and biosecurity controllers j section 188(3) : k section 190(2) : Permits to import l section 196 (1) and (2) : Priority applications for firearms licences m section 374 . The following provisions come into force …
Read full bill text
Arms Bill The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows: 1 Title This Act is the Arms Act 2025 . 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on 23 September 2026 , with some exceptions. The following sections come into force on 23 July 2027 : Ammunition sellers a sections 171 to 174 175 : b section 176 : c section 341(1)(a)(v) and (b)(iv) . The following sections come into force on 23 February 2028 : Animal and biosecurity controller multi-user agreements a section 32 : b section 35 : c section 273 : d section 349(4) , definition of temporary transfer, paragraph (b) : Exception to requirement for licensed business to have permit to possess pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm for purpose of repair or modification e section 21(2) : f section 33(2) : Duration of visitor licences g section 130(1)(b) and (3) : Suspension of licences h section 145(1)(a)(iv) : Storage of vital parts i section 189(3) : Duration of endorsements on firearms licence held by animal and biosecurity controllers j section 188(3) : k section 190(2) : Permits to import l section 196 (1) and (2) : Priority applications for firearms licences m section 374 . The following provisions come into force on a date set by Order in Council: a section 380 , to the extent that it relates to Part 3 of Schedule 2 : b Part 3 of Schedule 2 . An Order in Council made under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 3 Purposes of this Act The purposes of this Act are to— a promote the safe possession and use of arms; and b impose controls to prevent the possession and use of arms for criminal activity. 4 Principles The arms regulatory regime established by this Act to achieve the purposes specified in section 3 reflects the following principles: a that the possession and use of arms is a privilege ; and : b that anyone doing anything involving arms must act in the interests of personal and public safety. 5 Interpretation In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,— air pistol carbine conversion kit — a means a frame or kit that can be used to convert an air pistol that is designed or adapted to be held and fired with 1 hand into an airgun that may be fired from the shoulder; but b excludes a pistol carbine conversion kit airgun — a includes— i any air rifle; and ii any air pistol; and iii anything from which, by the use of gas or compressed air (and not by force of explosive), any shot, bullet, missile, or other projectile can be discharged; but b excludes— i an exempt airgun; and ii a high-energy airgun ammunition — a means material that can be fired, discharged, projected, or detonated from a firearm and that has all of the following components: i a projectile (for example, bullets, shots, and missiles); and ii a propellant (for example, smokeless powder); and iii a casing (for example, a cartridge case); and iv a primer (for example, a boxer primer); but b excludes restricted ammunition animal and biosecurity controller has the same meaning as in section 7 antique firearm — a means— i any firearm or pistol that— A is held in the possession of any person solely as an antique (but not as a copy or replica of an antique); and B is not designed for firing, and is not capable of firing, rimfire or centrefire cartridge ammunition; or ii any firearm or pistol declared by regulations to be an antique firearm for the purposes of this Act; but b does not include excludes any firearm or pistol manufactured after 1899 approved ammunition seller means a person approved by the chief executive under section 172 to sell or supply ammunition arms item — a means an item of any of the following classes: i standard firearms: ii restricted firearms: iii pistols: iv restricted weapons: v airguns: vii blank-firing guns: viii standard magazines: ix restricted magazines: x large-capacity pistol magazines: xi pistol carbine conversion kits: xii non-restricted parts: xiii restricted parts: xiv major firearm parts; but b excludes— i imitation firearms: ii permanently deactivated firearms: iii ammunition arms officer — a means a person who performs functions or duties, or exercises powers, of the Arms Regulator under delegated authority of the chief executive ( see section 306 ); and b includes the chief executive arms registry or registry means the registry kept and operated under section 347 Arms Regulator means the Arms Regulator established under section 300 blank-firing gun — a means anything that— i has the shape of a firearm or restricted weapon, or otherwise resembles a firearm or restricted weapon; and ii is capable of firing blank cartridges, but incapable of discharging any shot, bullet, missile, or other projectile; and b includes a starting pistol that fires a blank cartridge (but not caps); but c excludes an exempt blank-firing gun business activity means any activity of a kind specified in section 6 business licence means a licence issued under section 84 chief executive means the chief executive of the Arms Regulator appointed under section 302 Commissioner means the Commissioner of Police Customs officer has the same meaning as in section 5(1) of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 endorsement means an endorsement made on a firearms licence, business licence, museum licence, or visitor licence under section 185 exempt airgun means an airgun, or any kind of airgun, exempted by regulations from being an airgun for the purposes of this Act exempt-blank firing exempt blank-firing gun means a blank-firing gun, or any kind of blank-firing gun, exempted by regulations from being a blank-firing gun for the purposes of this Act exempt pistol means a pistol, or any kind of pistol, exempted by regulations from being a pistol for the purposes of this Act exempt standard firearm means a firearm, or any kind of firearm, exempted by regulations from being a standard firearm for the purposes of this Act explosive — a means any substance or mixture or combination of substances that in its normal state is capable of decomposition at such rapid rate as to result in an explosion or of producing a pyrotechnic effect; and b without limiting paragraph (a) , includes gunpowder, nitroglycerine, dynamite, guncotton, blasting powder, fulminate of mercury or of other metals, coloured flares, fog signals, fuses, rockets, percussion caps, detonators, cartridges, and ammunition of all descriptions; and c without limiting paragraph (a) or (b) , includes any device, contrivance, or article that uses any substance or mixture or combination of substances to which paragraph (a) or (b) applies as an integral part of it for the purposes of producing an explosion or a ballistic or pyrotechnic effect, but does not include a firearm; and d does not include any firework as defined in section 2(1) of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 fees framework means the framework determined by the Government from time to time for the classification and remuneration of statutory and other bodies in which the Crown has an interest firearm — a means anything from which any projectile can be discharged by force of explosive; and b includes— i anything that has been adapted so that it can be used to discharge any projectile by force of explosive; and ii anything that is not for the time being capable of discharging any projectile but that, by its completion or the replacement of any component part or parts or the correction or repair of any defect or defects, would be a firearm within the meaning of paragraph (a) or subparagraph (i) ; and iii anything (being a firearm within the meaning of paragraph (a) or subparagraph (i) ) that is for the time being dismantled or partially dismantled; and iv any high-energy airgun; but c excludes— i an airgun: ii a blank-firing gun: iii an exempt airgun: iv an exempt blank-firing gun : v a permanently deactivated firearm firearms licence means a licence issued under section 70 Firearms Licensing Review Committee or Review Committee means the Firearms Licensing Review Committee established by section 313 firearms prohibition order or FPO means an order made against a person by a court under section 289 foreign in-flight security officer has the same meaning as in section 5 of the Civil Aviation Act 2023 gang has the same meaning as in section 4 of the Gangs Act 2024 gang member has the same meaning as in section 4 of the Gangs Act 2024 health practitioner means a health practitioner registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand, a nurse practitioner registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, a psychologist registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board, or a duly authorised officer under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 high-energy airgun means any airgun declared by Order in Council made under section 364 section 364AA to be a high-energy airgun identification marking , in relation to an item, means the marking of the item to identify it to the extent provided in, and in accordance with, any prescribed requirements imitation firearm means anything (including a permanently deactivated firearm) that has the appearance of a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon capable of discharging any projectile by force of explosive, whether or not it is capable of discharging any projectile by force of explosive import , in relation to any item,— a means— i to bring the item, or cause the item to be brought, into New Zealand; or ii to send the item, or cause the item to be sent, to New Zealand; but b does not include excludes doing any of the things in paragraph (a) for the purpose of transiting the item through New Zealand to another destination in-flight security officer has the same meaning as in section 5 of the Civil Aviation Act 2023 infringement fee , in relation to an infringement offence, means the infringement fee for the offence specified in regulations infringement offence means an offence identified in regulations as being an infringement offence large-capacity pistol magazine — a means a magazine that— i is for a pistol (as defined in this section) ; and ii has a capacity of more than 10 rounds; but b excludes a restricted magazine licence means— a a firearms licence: b a business licence: c a museum licence: d a museum worker licence: e a visitor licence licensed business means a person described in section 57(2) licensed museum means a museum described in section 62(2) major firearm part , in relation to a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, and or restricted weapon, means— a the action of the firearm, comprising any of the following: i the frame: ii the receiver: iii the upper receiver: iv the lower receiver: b the frame of a pistol: c a calibre conversion component or kit of a pistol manufacture , in relation to an arms item,— a includes— i assembling the arms item from magazines and parts: ii modifying, converting, or otherwise altering the function of the arms item; but b does not include excludes — i disassembling or reassembling an arms item for the purposes of cleaning, maintenance, or repair: ii replacing a part of an arms item with an equivalent part member of the Defence Force has the same meaning as in paragraph (a) of the definition of that term in section 2(1) of the Defence Act 1990 monitoring department means the department, departmental agency, or interdepartmental venture (as named in Part 1, 2, or 4 of Schedule 2 of the Public Service Act 2020) that, with the authority of the Prime Minister, is responsible for the administration of this Act multi-user agreement means an agreement in force between the Arms Regulator and an animal and biosecurity controller , within the meaning of that term in section 7(1)(a), (b), or (c) , that provides for 1 or more specified restricted firearms and 1 or more specified restricted magazines to be shared between employees of the animal and biosecurity controller without a permit to possess being required on each occasion that possession of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine changes between the employees museum means a bona fide museum museum licence means a licence issued under section 101 museum worker means an employee of, or a volunteer working for, a museum museum worker licence means a licence issued under section 112 non-pistol shooting club has the same meaning as in section 208 non-pistol shooting range has the same meaning as in section 208 non-restricted part means a part of a standard firearm or pistol, and includes a major firearm part of a standard firearm or pistol organised criminal group has the same meaning as in section 98A of the Crimes Act 1961 part , in relation to any standard firearm, restricted firearm, blank-firing gun, pistol, or restricted weapon,— a means— i any component that, of itself, is essential to the discharge of any ammunition or other material from the standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon; and ii any component that is exclusively designed to be, or is intended to be, an integral part of the standard firearm, restricted firearm, blank-firing gun, pistol, or restricted weapon (for example, a butt, stock, or component that feeds or contributes to feeding ammunition to the standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon); and b includes the following components or accessories that can be fitted to, or adapted to fit, a standard firearm, restricted firearm, blank-firing gun, pistol, or restricted weapon: i grips: ii chassis systems: iii magazine adapters: iv magazine couplers: v magazine loaders: vi flash suppressors: vii silencers; but c does not include excludes the following: i magazines: ii pistol carbine conversion kits: iii air pistol carbine conversion kits permanently deactivated firearm means an item that was formerly a standard firearm, pistol, or restricted firearm but that is no longer a standard firearm, pistol, or restricted firearm because it has been modified— a in accordance with prescribed requirements; and b to the extent that it is rendered permanently incapable of firing, discharging, projecting, or detonating by force of explosive any projectile permit to import means,— a in relation to any item that is not a pistol carbine conversion kit or air pistol carbine conversion kit, a permit issued under section 193 : b in relation to a pistol carbine conversion kit, a permit issued under section 194 : c in relation to an air pistol carbine conversion kit, a permit issued under section 195 permit to possess means,— a in relation to a pistol or restricted weapon, a permit issued under section 205 : b in relation to a pistol carbine conversion kit, a permit issued under section 206 : c in relation to a restricted firearm or restricted magazine, a permit issued under section 207 pistol — a means a firearm (as defined in this section) that is designed or adapted to be held and fired with 1 hand; and b includes any firearm that is less than 762 millimetres in length; but c excludes an exempt pistol pistol carbine conversion kit — a means a frame or kit that can be used to convert a pistol (not being an air pistol) that is designed or adapted to be held and fired with 1 hand , and that has an overall length of no more than 400 millimetres , into a firearm that may be fired from the shoulder; and b includes a frame or kit described in paragraph (a) that is also capable of being used as an air pistol carbine conversion kit pistol shooting club has the same meaning as in section 208 pistol shooting range has the same meaning as in section 208 Police means the part of the New Zealand Police that is not the Arms Regulator Police employee — a has the same meaning as in section 4 of the Policing Act 2008; but b excludes an arms officer projectile includes any bullet, shot, or missile public place has the same meaning as in section 2 of the Summary Offences Act 1981 range operator has the same meaning as in section 208 regulations means regulations made under section 362 responsible Minister means the Minister of the Crown who, under the authority of any warrant or with the authority of the Prime Minister, is responsible for the administration of this Act restricted airgun has the same meaning as in section 8 restricted ammunition means any ammunition declared by Order in Council made under section 363 to be restricted ammunition for the purposes of this Act restricted firearm has the same meaning as in section 9 restricted item means all or any of the following: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine: c a restricted part restricted magazine has the same meaning as in section 10 restricted part — a means— i a part of a restricted firearm, excluding including the action (that is, the frame, receiver, upper receiver, or lower receiver) of a restricted firearm: ii a component that can be applied to enable, or take significant steps towards enabling, a standard firearm to be converted to a restricted firearm; but b excludes a part of a restricted weapon restricted weapon has the same meaning as in section 11 sale includes— a barter; and b offering or attempting to sell, or having in possession for sale, or exposing for sale, or sending or delivering for sale, or causing or allowing to be sold, offered, or exposed for sale ; and to sell has a corresponding meaning ;— and to sell has a corresponding meaning semi-automatic firearm means a standard firearm, restricted firearm, or pistol that (if it is loaded) when loaded , with each pull of the trigger,— a fires a cartridge and ejects its case; and b unless all loaded cartridges loaded have been fired, chambers another cartridge semi-automatic pistol means a pistol that when loaded, with each pull of the trigger,— a fires a cartridge and ejects the cartridge case; and b unless all loaded cartridges have been fired, automatically loads another cartridge in the firearm’s chamber senior manager ,— a in relation to a body corporate, means a person who occupies a position that allows the person to exercise significant influence over the management or administration of the body corporate (for example, a chief executive of a body corporate): b in relation to a museum, means a person who occupies a position that allows the person to exercise significant influence over the management of the museum (for example, a director of the museum) shooting club means a pistol shooting club or non-pistol shooting club shooting range means a pistol shooting range or a non-pistol shooting range small semi-automatic pistol means a semi-automatic pistol that— a has an overall length of 400 millimetres or less, excluding any silencer, pistol carbine conversion kit, or other muzzle-fitting attachment; and b has a barrel length of 101 millimetres or more; and c is capable of firing specified ammunition only at a muzzle velocity of 1,600 feet per second or less; and d is suitable for shooting on a pistol shooting range specified ammunition means ammunition of a type specified in the rules of the pistol target shooting disciplines that are administered by the national pistol target shooting controlling body known as Pistol New Zealand Incorporated and that are conducted on ranges approved by the chief executive standard firearm means a firearm that is not any of the following: a an exempt standard firearm: b a restricted firearm: c a pistol: ca an exempt pistol: d a restricted weapon standard magazine means a magazine of a standard firearm or pistol that is not— a a restricted magazine: b a large-capacity pistol magazine theatrical armourer means a person who holds a firearms licence or business licence that bears a current endorsement allowing them to possess, use, or supervise the use of any of the following arms items in making a broadcast or in theatrical, cinematic, television film, or video recording productions: a standard firearms: b restricted firearms: c pistols: d restricted magazines: e restricted weapons visitor means a visitor to New Zealand who intends to be in New Zealand for less than 1 year visitor licence means a licence issued under section 124 . 6 Meaning of business activity In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, business activity — a means any of the following: i the business of selling, hiring, lending, or otherwise supplying a class of arms items: ii the business of repairing or modifying a class of arms items: iii the business of manufacturing for sale, hire, lending, or other supply a class of arms items either or both of the following : A a class of arms items: B air pistol carbine conversion kits: iv possessing, for the purposes of an auction, a class of arms items: v manufacturing for the purposes of permitted supply (as defined in section 82(4) ) restricted magazines and restricted parts and using restricted items to test and demonstrate those restricted parts; but b does not include excludes — i commercial hunting guide services that are provided by a person who holds a firearms licence and who, during the provision of those services to 1 or more clients, supplies no more than 6 firearms: ii selling, hiring, lending, or supplying firearms by a member of a shooting club if the member— A sells, hires, lends, or supplies firearms to a club member, or on club premises, with the approval of the management committee of the club or a majority vote of club members; and B uses the revenue from the sale, hire, lending, or supply of the firearms for the benefit of the club. For the purposes of the business activities described in subsections (1)(a)(i), (ii), and (iii) , a person is in the business of carrying on any of those activities if, in relation to the activity, the person— a holds out that they are in the business of carrying on the activity (for example, the person uses a trading name or operates under a business structure); and b carries on the activity for gain or reward. 7 Meaning of animal and biosecurity controller In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, animal and biosecurity controller means— a a person who is employed or engaged by the Department of Conservation and involved in operations for the purpose of controlling animals in accordance with a specified Act (subject to prescribed limits, if any): b a person who is the holder of a concession granted by the Minister of Conservation to undertake animal recovery operations in accordance with a specified Act (subject to prescribed limits, if any): c a person who is employed or engaged by a management agency referred to in section 100 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 and involved in operations for the purpose of controlling animals in accordance with that Act (subject to prescribed limits, if any): d a person whose sole business, or a substantial part of whose business, is providing services to control any prescribed animals, or a person employed or engaged by that person for that purpose (subject to prescribed limits, if any): e a person who is the owner or manager, or is an employee, of an agricultural, horticultural, or silvicultural business if there is a real possibility that the commercial viability of the business would be detrimentally affected to a significant extent by the presence of prescribed animals on any land used for that business (subject to prescribed limits, if any). In subsection (1)(a) and (b) , specified Act means— a the Wildlife Act 1953 : b the Wild Animal Control Act 1977 : c the Conservation Act 1987 : d the Biosecurity Act 1993 . 8 Meaning of restricted airgun In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, restricted airgun means an airgun (as defined in section 5 ) that,— a without any of the attachments with which it is customarily used, has the appearance of being a restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon; or b with some or all of the attachments with which it is customarily used, has the appearance of being a pistol, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon; or c is designed for use in airsoft or paintball sports and,— i without any of the attachments with which it is customarily used, has the appearance of being a firearm capable of full automatic fire; or ii with some or all of the attachments with which it is customarily used, has the appearance of being a firearm capable of full automatic fire. For the purposes of subsection (1) , an a restricted airgun may have the appearance of a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon capable of full automatic fire without having the appearance of any particular model of standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon capable of full automatic fire. 9 Meaning of restricted firearm In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, restricted firearm — a means a firearm (as defined in section 5 ) that is one of the following types: i a semi-automatic firearm, other than— A a specified semi-automatic firearm: B a semi-automatic shotgun with a non-detachable tubular magazine or magazines that are capable of holding no more than 5 cartridges commensurate with that firearm’s chamber size: C a small semi-automatic pistol: D a semi-automatic pistol (not being a small semi-automatic pistol) in the possession or under the control of a person referred to in subsection (3) : ii a pump-action shotgun that is capable of being used with a detachable magazine: iii a pump-action shotgun that has a non-detachable tubular magazine or magazines that are capable of holding more than 5 cartridges commensurate with that firearm’s chamber size: iv a centrefire pump-action rifle that is capable of being used with a detachable magazine: v a centrefire pump-action rifle that has 1 or more non-detachable magazines (tubular or otherwise) that are capable of holding more than 10 cartridges commensurate with that firearm’s chamber size; and b includes any other firearm declared by Order in Council made under section 363 to be a restricted firearm for the purposes of this Act ; and . c also includes a major firearm part of a firearm described in paragraph (a) or (b) . In subsection (1)(a)(i)(A) , specified semi-automatic firearm means a semi-automatic firearm— a that is capable of firing only 0.22 calibre or lower rimfire cartridges; and b that has a magazine, whether or not detachable or otherwise externally fed, that is capable of holding no more than 10 cartridges commensurate with the firearm’s chamber size; and c that does not have a lower receiver that is able to be attached to a centrefire upper receiver so as to result in a firearm that is able to function. For the purposes of subsection (1)(a)(i)(D) , the person is a firearms licence holder— a whose licence bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a semi-automatic pistol in the capacity described in section 183(4), (5), (6), or (7) ; and b who has been issued with— i a permit to import the pistol; or ii a permit to possess the pistol. 10 Meaning of restricted magazine In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, restricted magazine ,— a in relation to a shotgun, means a magazine, whether or not detachable, that is capable of holding more than 5 cartridges commensurate with that shotgun’s chamber size: b in relation to any other firearm (except a pistol described in section 9(1)(a)(i)(C) or (D) ),— i means any detachable magazine— A that is capable of holding 0.22 calibre or lower rimfire cartridges and that is capable of holding more than 10 of those cartridges: B that is capable of holding more than 10 cartridges and being used with a semi-automatic or fully automatic firearm: ii means any other magazine, whether or not detachable, that is capable of holding more than 10 cartridges: c in relation to a pistol, means any drum magazine that can be attached to the pistol: d includes any other magazine declared by Order in Council made under section 363 to be a restricted magazine for the purposes of this Act. 11 Meaning of restricted weapon In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, restricted weapon means— a anything, whether or not a firearm (as defined in section 5 ), declared by the Governor-General, by Order in Council made under section 364 , to be a restricted weapon that is not— i an anti-personnel mine (as defined in section 3 of the Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 ); or ii a cluster munition (as defined in by section 6 of the Cluster Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 ); and b includes a major firearm part of a firearm that is declared to be a restricted weapon under paragraph (a) . In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, restricted weapon means anything, whether or not a firearm (as defined in section 5 ), declared by the Governor-General, by Order in Council made under section 364 , to be a restricted weapon. 12 Transitional, savings, and related provisions The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms. 13 Act binds the Crown This Act binds the Crown. However, subsection (1) is subject to subsections (3) and (4) . Nothing in this Act renders unlawful the carriage or possession of arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives— a by any person in the course of that person’s duties as— i a member of the New Zealand Defence Force or a member of the cadet forces; or ia a person employed or engaged by the Commissioner and authorised to provide training to Police employees in the use of any arms item, ammunition, or explosive; or i a member of the Defence Force; or ia a member of the cadet forces (as that term is defined in section 2(1) of the Defence Act 1990); or ii a person authorised by the Chief of Defence Force to provide training to the members referred to in subparagraph (i) or (ia) in the use of any arms items, ammunition, or explosive restricted ammunition, or explosives ; or iii a civilian employee of the Ministry of Defence, so long as the person carries or possesses any firearms or other items regulated by or under this Act under the direct supervision of a member of the New Zealand Defence Force; or iv a member of a visiting force under the Visiting Forces Act 2004 ; or v a Police employee or person engaged by the Police; or va a person employed or engaged by the Commissioner and authorised to provide training to Police employees in the use of any arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives; or vi an armourer employed or engaged by the Arms Regulator; or vii an arms officer; or ix a person employed by the Arms Regulator to provide firearms training to arms officers; or x an enforcement officer as defined in section 2(1) of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 ; or xi a Customs officer; or xii a person working in any forensic laboratory or facility that provides forensic services to the Police; or xiii an in-flight security officer or a foreign in-flight security officer: b by a member of the New Zealand Defence Force or Police employee in the course of exercising any power or performing any function under the Customs and Excise Act 2018 : c by a member of the New Zealand Defence Force or a constable who is an enforcement officer as defined in section 4(1) of the Maritime Powers Act 2022 in the course of exercising any power or performing any function under that Act: d by any other person authorised by regulations to carry or possess arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives belonging to the Crown. Nothing in this Act makes unlawful— a the importation by the Crown of arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives; or b the importation or possession by any agent of the Crown of arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives imported on behalf of the Crown, so long as the importation or possession is within the scope of the agent’s written authority; or c the manufacture by the Crown, or on behalf of the Crown by any agent of the Crown, of any arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives, so long as any assembly or manufacture by an agent is within the scope of the agent’s written authority; or d the sale or supply of arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives to or by the Crown, or to or by an agent of the Crown (excluding an undercover officer); or e the entering into a contract or an arrangement, or the arriving at an understanding, with the Crown, or with an agent of the Crown (excluding an undercover officer) for the sale or supply of arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosives. Nothing in this Act makes it unlawful for any person who is a visiting law enforcement officer from another country to do any of the following, if authorised by the Commissioner: a import into New Zealand any firearm or other item regulated by or under this Act; or b carry or possess while in New Zealand any firearm or other item regulated by or under this Act. The following requirements of this Act do not apply in relation to any item regulated by or under this Act that is owned by the Crown, except to the extent provided by regulations: a any requirement to notify or report any event or circumstance to the chief executive or the Police: b any requirement to mark any firearm or other item with an identifying marking: c any requirement to provide any particulars to the chief executive for inclusion in the registry: d any requirement to record any particulars, whether in the registry or elsewhere. Except with the leave of the Attorney-General, no prosecution for any of the following offences may be commenced or continued against any constable in respect of anything they do at a time or during a period when they are acting as an undercover officer: a an offence against this Act; or b an offence of conspiring to commit any offence against this Act; or c an offence of attempting to commit any offence against this Act. In this section, undercover officer — a means a constable whose identity is for the time being concealed for the purpose of a particular investigation of a suspected offence against this Act; and b includes any other constable who is for the time being directing or assisting that constable in the course of that investigation. A certificate signed by the Commissioner to the effect that, at any specified time or during any specified period, the constable named in the certificate was acting as an undercover officer is, for the purposes of subsection (7) , conclusive evidence of that fact. In this section, undercover officer — a means a constable whose identity is for the time being concealed for the purpose of a particular investigation of a suspected offence against this Act; and b includes any other constable who is for the time being directing or assisting that constable in the course of that investigation. 14 Requirement for possession of standard firearm A person may possess a standard firearm only if the person holds a firearms licence or visitor licence. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 14A Exception for antique firearms Section 14 does not apply to a person in possession of an antique firearm. 15 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 14 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against section 14 if the defendant proves— a that the standard firearm was in their possession for use under the immediate supervision of a firearms licence holder; and b that at all times while they were in possession of the standard firearm, they were under the immediate supervision of the firearms licence holder. 16 Requirement for possession of blank-firing gun A person may possess a blank-firing gun only if the person holds a firearms licence or visitor licence. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 17 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 16 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against section 16 if the defendant proves— a that the blank-firing gun was in their possession for use under the immediate supervision of a firearms licence holder; and b that at all times while they were in possession of the blank-firing gun, they were under the immediate supervision of the firearms licence holder. 18 Requirement for possession of airgun A person may possess an airgun only if the person is— a of or over the age of 18 years; or b aged between 16 years and 18 years and holds a firearms licence or visitor licence. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 19 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 18 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against section 18 if the defendant proves— a that the airgun was in their possession for use under the immediate supervision of— i a person of or over the age of 18; or ii a person who holds a firearms licence; and b that at all times while they were in possession of the airgun, they were under the immediate supervision of— i a person of or over the age of 18; or ii a person who holds a firearms licence. 20 Requirements for possession of pistol or restricted weapon An individual may possess a pistol only if— a the individual holds a firearms licence or visitor licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a pistol; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the pistol by the issue of— i a permit to import the pistol; or ii a permit to possess the pistol. A licensed business may possess a pistol only if— a the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a pistol; and b the licensed business takes or took possession of the pistol from another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the pistol by the licence holder being issued with— i a permit to import the pistol; or ii a permit to possess the pistol. An individual may possess a restricted weapon only if the individual— a holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted weapon; and b takes or took possession of the restricted weapon from another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the restricted weapon by the issue of— i a permit to import the restricted weapon; or ii a permit to possess the restricted weapon. A licensed business may possess a restricted weapon only if— a the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted weapon; and b the licensed business takes or took possession of the restricted weapon from another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the restricted weapon by the licence holder being issued with— i a permit to import the restricted weapon; or ii a permit to possess the restricted weapon. Subsections (1) to (4) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person— a possesses a pistol or restricted weapon; and b is not authorised or permitted by or under this Act to possess the pistol or restricted weapon. 21 Exception if repairs or modifications to pistol or restricted weapon undertaken by licensed business Section 20(1)(b) and (3)(b) does not apply if the pistol or restricted weapon— a is owned by the individual and is returned to the individual by a licensed business following repair or modification; and b has not been out of the possession of the individual for more than 21 days. Section 20(2)(b) and (4)(b) does not apply if the licensed business— a receives the pistol or restricted weapon for the purpose of repair or modification; and b within 21 days, returns the pistol or restricted weapon to its owner. In this section, modification , in relation to a pistol or restricted weapon, includes permanently deactivating the pistol or restricted weapon. 22 Exception for pistol that is antique firearm Section 20 does not apply to a person in possession of a pistol that is an antique firearm. 23 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 20 In any prosecution for an offence under offence against section 20 in which it is proved that the defendant was in possession of a pistol or restricted weapon, the defendant has the burden of proving that they were authorised or permitted , expressly or by implication, by or under this Act to be in possession of the pistol or restricted weapon. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 20(1) if the defendant proves that— a they hold a firearms licence; and b they have owned the pistol to which the charge relates since before 16 May 1969; and c immediately before 16 May 1969, they were registered under section 9 of the Arms Act 1958 as the owner of the pistol; and d that, although the pistol is less than 762 millimetres in length, it has not been reduced below that length since 15 May 1969 and is not designed or adapted to be held and fired with 1 hand. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 20(1) if the defendant proves— a that the pistol was in their possession for use both— i on a pistol shooting range; and ii under the immediate supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence bearing an endorsement permitting the person to have possession of a pistol in their capacity as a member of a pistol shooting club; and b that at all times while they were in possession of the pistol , they were both on such a range and under the immediate supervision of such a person. 24 Requirements for possession of pistol carbine conversion kit An individual may possess a pistol carbine conversion kit only if— a the individual holds a firearms licence or visitor licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a pistol; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the pistol and pistol carbine conversion kit by the issue of— i a permit to import a pistol or a permit to possess a pistol; and ii a permit to import the pistol carbine conversion kit or a permit to possess the pistol carbine conversion kit. A licensed business may possess a pistol carbine conversion kit only if— a the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a pistol; and b the licensed business takes or took possession of the pistol carbine conversion kit from any other another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the pistol carbine conversion kit by the licence holder being issued with— i a permit to import the pistol carbine conversion kit; or ii a permit to possess the pistol carbine conversion kit. Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person— a possesses a pistol carbine conversion kit; and b is not authorised or permitted by or under this Act to possess the pistol carbine conversion kit. 25 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 24 In any prosecution for an offence under offence against section 24 in which it is proved that the defendant was in possession of a pistol carbine conversion kit, the defendant has the burden of proving that they were authorised or permitted , expressly or by implication, by or under this Act to be in possession of the pistol carbine conversion kit. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against section 24 if the defendant proves— a that the pistol carbine conversion kit was in their possession for use both— i on a pistol shooting range; and ii under the immediate supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence bearing an endorsement permitting them to have possession of a pistol; and b that at all times while they were in possession of the pistol carbine conversion kit , they were both on such a range and under the immediate supervision of such a person. 26 Requirement for possession of standard magazine or non-restricted part A person may possess a standard magazine or non-restricted part only if the person— a holds a firearms licence or visitor licence; or b is, at all times while in possession of the standard magazine or non-restricted part, under the immediate supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence. Subsection (1) does not apply to a large-capacity pistol magazine ( see section 27 ). Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 27 Requirement for possession of large-capacity pistol magazine A person may possess a large-capacity pistol magazine only if the person holds a firearms licence or visitor licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a pistol. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 28 Requirement for possession of parts of restricted weapons A person may possess a major firearm part of a restricted weapon , or any other part of a restricted weapon, only if the person holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted weapon. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 29 Requirement for possession of ammunition A person may possess ammunition only if the person— a holds a firearms licence or visitor licence; or b is, at all times while in possession of the ammunition, under the immediate supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. In subsection (1) , ammunition does not include— a ammunition for— i antique firearms: ii exempt standard firearms: iii exempt pistols: b projectiles for airguns. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 30 Exception for employees of approved ammunition sellers Section 29 does not apply to a person in possession of ammunition when the person is— a acting in their capacity as an employee of an approved ammunition seller; and b performing their duties at their place of work under the supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence. 31 Requirements for possession of restricted firearm An individual may possess a restricted firearm only if the individual — a the individual holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the restricted firearm by the issue of— i a permit to import the restricted firearm; or ii a permit to possess the restricted firearm. A licensed business may possess a restricted firearm only if— a the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm; and b the licensed business takes or took possession of the restricted firearm from another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the restricted firearm by the licence holder being issued with— i a permit to import the restricted firearm; or ii a permit to possess the restricted firearm. Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person— a possesses a restricted firearm; and b is not authorised or permitted by or under this Act to possess the restricted firearm. 32 Exception for employees of animal and biosecurity controllers sharing possession of restricted firearms Section 31(1)(b) does not apply to an individual who— a is an employee specified in a multi-user agreement; and b shares with other employees specified in the multi-user agreement the possession of 1 or more restricted firearms; and c is in possession of the same restricted firearm for 7 days or less. 33 Exception if repairs or modifications to restricted firearm undertaken by licensed business Section 31(1)(b) does not apply if the restricted firearm— a is owned by the individual and is returned to the individual by a licensed business following repair or modification; and b has not been out of the possession of the individual for more than 21 days. Section 31(2)(b) does not apply if the licensed business— a receives the restricted firearm for the purpose of repair or modification; and b within 21 days, returns the restricted firearm to its owner. In this section, modification , in relation to a restricted firearm, includes permanently deactivating the restricted firearm. 34 Requirements for possession of restricted magazine An individual may possess a restricted magazine only if— a the individual holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted magazine; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the restricted magazine by the issue of— i a permit to import the restricted magazine; or ii a permit to possess the restricted magazine. A licensed business may possess a restricted magazine only if— a the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted magazine; and b the licensed business takes or took possession of the restricted magazine from another person following after the endorsement being was made specific to the restricted magazine by the licence holder being issued with— i a permit to import the restricted magazine; or ii a permit to possess the restricted magazine. Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person— a possesses a restricted magazine; and b is not authorised or permitted by or under this Act to possess the restricted magazine. 35 Exception for employees of animal and biosecurity controllers sharing possession of restricted magazines Section 34(1)(b) does not apply to an individual who— a is an employee specified in a multi-user agreement; and b shares with other employees specified in that multi-user agreement the possession of 1 or more restricted magazines; and c is in possession of the same restricted firearm for 7 days or less. 36 Requirement for possession of restricted parts A person may possess a restricted part only if the person— a is an individual and holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm; or b is a licensed business and the business licence— i authorises the manufacture or possession of the restricted part for the purpose of carrying on a business activity; and ii bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. See section 59 , which provides for a licensed business, in certain circumstances, to possess a restricted part for the purpose of carrying on a business activity. 37 Requirements for possession of restricted ammunition A person may possess restricted ammunition only if the person— a is authorised or permitted by or under this Act to do so; and b holds— i a firearms licence; or ii a museum worker licence. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 38 Possession of firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon for theatrical purposes A person may have possession of a firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon for the purpose of making a broadcast or a theatrical, cinematic, television film, or video recording production only if— a the person is entitled under this Act to have possession of the firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon; or b the person— i is under the immediate supervision of another person who is entitled under this Act to have possession of the firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon; and ii has possession of the firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon only during the making of the broadcast or the production or staging of the play or the filming of the cinematic production or television film theatrical, cinematic, television filming, or video recording production ; and iii is not in possession of any ammunition (other than blank ammunition) for the firearm, pistol, restricted item, or restricted weapon. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. 39 Requirement for selling or supplying arms item manufactured for personal use by firearms licence holder This section applies to an arms item that has been manufactured by a firearms licence holder for personal use by the firearms licence holder. The firearms licence holder who manufactured the arms item may only sell or supply the arms item to— a a licensed business; or b any other person through a licensed business. A firearms licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the firearms licence holder contravenes subsection (2) . 40 Requirements for selling or supplying standard firearm, blank-firing gun, or airgun A person may sell or supply a standard firearm to another person ( B ) only if B holds a firearms licence. A person may sell or supply a blank-firing gun to another person ( B ) only if B holds a firearms licence. A person may sell or supply an airgun to another person ( B ) only if B— a is aged between 16 years and 18 years and holds a firearms licence; or b is of or over the age of 18 years. Subsections (1) to (3) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person , without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (3) . 41 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 40 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 40(1) or (2) if the defendant ( A ) proves— a A took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the standard firearm ( B ) was a firearms licence holder or was a licensed business; or b that— i the standard firearm was sold or supplied to B for use under the immediate supervision of another person (not being a visitor) who is a firearms licence holder ( C ); and ii at all times , while B was in possession of the standard firearm, B was under the immediate supervision of C. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 40(3) if the defendant ( D ) proves— a that D took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the airgun ( E ) was— i of or over the age of 18 years; or ii a firearms licence holder; or iii a licensed business; or b that— i the airgun was sold or supplied to E for use under the immediate supervision of another person ( F ) who was— A of or over the age of 18 years; or B a firearms licence holder; or ii at all times while E was in possession of the airgun, E was under the immediate supervision of F. 42 Requirements for selling or supplying pistol or restricted weapon A person may sell or supply a pistol or restricted weapon to another person ( B ) only if— a B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting B to possess a pistol or restricted weapon; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the pistol or restricted weapon by the issue of— i a permit to import the pistol or restricted weapon; or ii a permit to possess the pistol or restricted weapon. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person contravenes subsection (1) . 43 Defence to prosecution for offence under offence against section 42 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 42(1) if the defendant ( A ) proves— a that A took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the pistol or restricted weapon ( B ) was the holder of a firearms licence bearing an endorsement permitting the person to possess the pistol or restricted weapon by a permit of the kind described in section 42(1)(b) ; or b in the case of a prosecution relating to the sale or supply of a pistol,— i that the pistol was supplied to B for use— A on a range used by a pistol shooting club that holds a certificate of approval issued under section 214 ; and B under the immediate supervision of another person ( C ) who holds a firearms licence bearing an endorsement permitting them to have the pistol or a pistol of that kind; and ii that , at all times while B was in possession of the pistol, B was— A on a range of the kind described in subparagraph (i)(A) ; and B under the immediate supervision of C. 44 Requirements for selling or supplying pistol carbine conversion kit or large-capacity pistol magazine A person may sell or supply a pistol carbine conversion kit to another person ( B ) only if— a B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting B to possess a pistol; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the pistol carbine conversion kit by the issue of— i a permit to import a pistol or a permit to possess a pistol; and ii a permit to import the pistol carbine conversion kit or a permit to possess the pistol carbine conversion kit. A person may sell or supply a large-capacity pistol magazine to another person ( B ) only if B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting B to possess a large-capacity pistol magazine. Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person , without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . 45 Defence to prosecution under section 44 It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 44(1) if the defendant ( A ) proves that they took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the pistol carbine conversion kit ( B ) held a firearms licence with an appropriate endorsement and permit in accordance with the requirements in section 42(1)(a) and (b) . It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 44(2) if the defendant ( A ) proves that they took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the large-capacity pistol magazine ( B ) held a firearms licence with an appropriate endorsement in accordance with the requirement in section 44(2) . It is also a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 44(1) or (2) if A proves— a that the pistol carbine conversion kit or large-capacity pistol magazine was supplied to B for use— i on a pistol shooting range; and ii under the immediate supervision of another person ( C ) who holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting C to possess a pistol; and b that , at all times while B was in possession of the pistol carbine conversion kit or large-capacity pistol magazine, B was— i on a pistol shooting range; and ii under the immediate supervision of C. 46 Requirements for selling or supplying part of restricted weapon A person ( A ) may sell or supply a part of a restricted weapon to any other person ( B ) only if— a A— i holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted weapon; or ii is a licensed business; and b B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted weapon. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 47 Requirement for selling or supplying ammunition A person may sell or supply ammunition commercially only if the person is— a a licensed business; or b an approved ammunition seller. A person may only sell or supply ammunition to a person who holds a firearms licence. Subsections (1) and (2) are subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person , without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . 48 Exceptions to section 47(1) Section 47(1) does not apply to a person who is— a an employee of a licensed business, if the employee holds a firearms licence; or b an employee of an ammunition seller who is performing their duties under the supervision of a person who holds a firearms licence; or c a member of a shooting club, if the member— i sells ammunition to a club member, or on club premises, with the approval of the management committee of the club or a majority vote of club members; and ii uses the sales revenue for the benefit of the club. 49 Defence to prosecution under section 47(2) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against section 47(2) if the defendant proves— a that they took reasonable steps to ascertain whether the person to whom they sold or supplied the ammunition ( A ) held a firearms licence; or b that— i the ammunition was sold or supplied to A for use under the immediate supervision of another person who holds a firearms licence ( B ); and ii at all times while A was in possession of the ammunition, A was under the immediate supervision of B. 50 Requirements for selling or supplying restricted firearms or restricted magazines A person may sell or supply a restricted firearm or restricted magazine to another person ( B ) only if— a B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting B to possess a restricted firearm or restricted magazine; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the restricted firearm or restricted magazine by the issue of— i a permit to import the restricted firearm or restricted magazine; or ii a permit to possess the restricted firearm or restricted magazine. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 51 Limited exemption for semi-automatic pistols Section 50 does not apply to the sale or supply of a semi-automatic pistol to a person in the person’s capacity referred to in section 183(4), (5), (6), or (7) , if that person has been issued with— a a permit to import the pistol; or b a permit to possess the pistol. 52 Requirements for selling or supplying restricted part A person ( A ) may sell or supply a restricted part to any other person ( B ) only if— a A— i holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm; or ii is a licensed business; and b B holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm. Subsection (1) is subject to any other provision of this Act that provides otherwise. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 53 Requirements for selling or supplying restricted ammunition A person may sell or supply restricted ammunition only if the person is authorised or permitted by or under this Act to do so. A person may sell or supply restricted ammunition to another person ( B ) only if B may possess restricted ammunition. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (1A) . 54 Requirements for selling arms item or ammunition by mail order or online A person may only sell, by mail order or online, any item specified in subsection (2) under a written order that— a is signed by the purchaser; and b is signed by an arms officer stating that the officer— i has inspected the purchaser’s firearms licence; and ii has inspected, in the case of an item specified in subsection (2)(e) , the permit to possess the pistol carbine conversion kit issued to the purchaser under section 206 ; and iii is satisfied that the purchaser is a fit and proper person to purchase the item; and c records, in the case of the sale of an item specified in subsection (2)(a) and (e) , the marking on the item. The items referred to in subsection (1) are— a standard firearms: b standard magazines: c large-capacity pistol magazines: d non-restricted parts: e pistol carbine conversion kits: f airguns (other than an airgun for use in airsoft or paintball sports): g ammunition (other than ammunition for an exempt standard firearm or an exempt pistol). A person may sell, by mail order or online, any restricted item, pistol, or restricted weapon only if— a the purchaser has obtained an endorsement on their business licence or firearms licence that authorises them to possess a restricted item, pistol, or restricted weapon; and b the purchaser has, in the case of a restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, or restricted weapon, obtained a permit to possess the restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, or restricted weapon; and c the restricted item, pistol, or restricted weapon is delivered by a the courier specified in the permit referred to in paragraph (b) or, in the case of a restricted part, a form specified by the chief executive. that is— i specified in the permit to possess referred to in paragraph (b) ; or ii agreed or specified by the chief executive, in the case of the delivery of a restricted part. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (3) . 55 Requirement for importing firearms, etc A person who is importing into New Zealand any of the following items must have a permit to import the item: a a standard firearm: b an exempt standard firearm: ba an exempt pistol: c a blank-firing gun: d an exempt blank-firing gun: e a permanently deactivated firearm: f a restricted airgun: g a standard magazine: h a large-capacity pistol magazine: i a pistol carbine conversion kit: j an air pistol carbine conversion kit: k a non-restricted part: l a part of a blank-firing gun: m ammunition: n a pistol: o a restricted weapon: oa a part of a restricted weapon: p a restricted firearm: q a restricted magazine: r a restricted part. In subsection (1) , New Zealand does not include the harbours and other territorial waters of New Zealand. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes any of paragraphs (a) to (m) of subsection (1) . A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes any of paragraphs (n) to (r) of subsection (1) . For permits to import, see subpart 2 of Part 4 . 56 Requirements for importing restricted ammunition A person may import restricted ammunition into New Zealand only if the person— a may possess restricted ammunition; and b has a permit to import the restricted ammunition. In subsection (1) , New Zealand does not include the harbours and other territorial waters of New Zealand. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 57 Persons carrying on business activity must be licensed A person may carry on a business activity in relation to a class of arms items only if the person is a licensed business. A person is a licensed business if the person is— a an individual who holds a business licence authorising the individual to carry on 1 or more business activities in relation to 1 or more classes of arms items; or b a body corporate that has a senior manager who holds a business licence authorising the senior manager to carry on 1 or more business activities in relation to 1 or more classes of arms items. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 58 Requirements relating to possession of restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon for business activities A licensed business may possess an arms item that is a restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon for the purpose of carrying on a business activity only if— a the licensed business is authorised to carry on the business activity in relation to the restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon; and b the business licence bears an appropriate endorsement; and c any of the following apply: i the business licence holder has been issued with— A a permit to import the arms item; or B a permit to possess the arms item; or ii the arms item has been manufactured by the licensed business with the written approval of the chief executive under section 65 ; or iii the arms item is a pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm and section 21(2) or 33(2) applies; or iv the arms item is a large-capacity pistol magazine. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . Subsection (2) is subject to section 332 . 59 Requirements relating to possession of restricted part for business activities A licensed business may possess a restricted part for the purpose of carrying on a business activity only if— a the business licence holder is authorised to carry on the business activity in relation to the restricted part; and b the business licence bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm; and c either— i the business licence holder has been issued with a permit to import the restricted part; or ii the restricted part has been obtained from— A a person who holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm; or B a licensed business and the business licence is held by an individual (in the case of a licensed business that is an individual) or a senior manager of a body corporate (in the case of a licensed business that is a body corporate) that bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . Subsection (2) is subject to section 332 . 60 Employees of licensed business must hold firearms licence An employee of a licensed business may assist with the carrying on of a business activity in relation to any class of arms items only if the employee holds a firearms licence. An employee of a licensed business commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the employee, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 61 Employees of licensed business do not require endorsements or permits to possess This section applies to an employee of a licensed business when the employee is— a acting in their capacity as an employee of a licensed business; and b assisting with the carrying on of a business activity (if they are qualified under section 60 to do so). The employee does not require an endorsement on their firearms licence to possess any of the following arms items: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine: c a pistol: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a large-capacity pistol magazine: f a restricted weapon: g a restricted part. The employee does not require a permit to possess any of the following arms items: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine: c a pistol: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a restricted weapon. 62 Museum possessing, displaying, and storing arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition A museum may possess, display, and store any of the following only if the museum is a licensed museum: a 1 or more classes of arms items: b 1 or more types of ammunition: c 1 or more types of restricted ammunition. A museum is a licensed museum if,— a in relation to the possession, display, and storage of a class of arms items in the museum, a senior manager, or a curator, of the museum holds a museum licence authorising the possession, display, and storage of that class of arms item in the museum: b in relation to the possession, display, and storage of a type of ammunition in the museum, a senior manager, or a curator, of the museum holds a museum licence authorising the possession, display, and storage of that type of ammunition in the museum: c in relation to the possession, display, and storage of a type of restricted ammunition in the museum, a senior manager, or a curator, of the museum holds a museum licence authorising the possession, display, and storage of that type of restricted ammunition in the museum. A senior manager or curator of a museum commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the museum, without reasonable excuse, displays 1 or more classes of arms items, or 1 or more types of ammunition or restricted ammunition, in contravention of subsection (1) . 63 Museum workers who possess, display, and store arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition must be licensed A museum worker performing their duties in a licensed museum may possess, display, and store any of the following only if the museum worker is licensed: a the 1 or more classes of arms items specified in the museum licence: b the 1 or more types of ammunition specified in the museum licence: c the 1 or more types of restricted ammunition specified in the museum licence. A museum worker is licensed if the museum worker holds— a a firearms licence; or b a museum worker licence. A museum worker commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the worker, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 63A Museum workers do not require endorsements or permits to possess This section applies to a museum worker when performing their duties in their capacity as a museum worker. The museum worker does not require an endorsement on their firearms licence or museum worker licence to possess any of the following arms items: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine: c a pistol: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a large-capacity pistol magazine: f a restricted weapon: g a restricted part. The museum worker does not require a permit to possess any of the following arms items: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine: c a pistol: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a restricted weapon. 64 Certain business licence holders may manufacture restricted items A person may not manufacture any restricted item unless— a the person is a licensed business described in section 82(2) or (3) and the business licence authorises the manufacture of the restricted item; and b the business licence bears an endorsement permitting possession of the restricted item; and c before the restricted item is manufactured, the endorsement has been made specific to the restricted item by the issue of a permit to possess the item. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) and manufactures a restricted firearm. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) and manufactures a restricted magazine or restricted part. 65 Requirements for manufacture of certain arms items by business licence holders This section applies if a business licence is issued for the purpose of carrying on a business activity relating to the manufacture for sale, hire, lending, or other supply of any of the following classes of arms items: a pistols: b restricted items: c pistol carbine conversion kits: d air pistol carbine conversion kits. Before manufacturing any class of arms items referred to in subsection (1) , a licensed business must— a obtain the approval of the chief executive to manufacture— i the class of arms items; and ii the number of items in that class intended to be manufactured; and b have a permit to possess each of the items. Before approving the manufacture of any class of arms items specified in subsection (1)(a), (b), or (c) , the chief executive must be satisfied that there are special reasons why the items that are proposed to be manufactured should be in New Zealand. Before manufacturing any class of items referred to in subsection (1) , a licensed business must obtain the approval of the chief executive to manufacture— a the class of items; and b the number of items in that class that the licensed business intends to manufacture. Before approving the manufacture of any class of items specified in subsection (1)(a), (b), or (c) by a licensed business, the chief executive must be satisfied that— a the licensed business has a permit to possess each of the items in that class; and b there are special reasons why the items in that class that the licensed business proposes to manufacture should be in New Zealand. The chief executive must, before approving the manufacture of air pistol carbine conversion kits, also be satisfied that the kits are for the personal use of a member of an airsoft or a paintball club that is affiliated with a national airsoft or paintball organisation. A licensed business that fails to comply with contravenes subsection (2) may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b have its business licence suspended under section 145 . 66 Requirement for manufacture of certain arms items by firearms licence holders This section applies to a firearms licence holder who proposes to manufacture for personal use an arms item that is— a a pistol: b a restricted weapon: c a pistol carbine conversion kit. The firearms licence holder must, before manufacturing the arms item, obtain a permit to possess the item. A firearms licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (2) . 67 Application for firearms licence A person may apply to the chief executive for a firearms licence if the person— a is of or over the age of 16 years; and b is not disqualified from holding a firearms licence; and d has not had a firearms licence revoked in the previous 5 years (or, if they have, the revocation was reversed by the Firearms Licensing Review Committee or District Court). An application for a firearms licence must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c include the name and contact details of the applicant’s health practitioner; and d be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and e be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). 68 Persons disqualified from holding firearms licence A person is disqualified from holding a firearms licence if— a the person has, within the previous 10 years, been convicted, or been released from custody after being convicted, of any of the following offences: i an offence under offence against section 31, 50, 55, 56, 255, 256, 257, 262, 263, 265, 266, 269, 329, or 350 : ia an offence under offence against section 16(4), 16A, 44A, 50A, 50D, 51A, 53A, 54, 54A, 55, 55A, 55D, 55E, or 55F of the Arms Act 1983: ii a specified violent offence as defined in section 4 of the Victims’ Orders Against Violent Offenders Act 2014 : iii an offence under offence against section 92, 98, 98A, 189A, 199, 202C, 216Q, 238, 267(1), 269(1) and (3), 306, or 308A of the Crimes Act 1961 : iv an offence under offence against section 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 12A, 12AB, or 12F of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 ; or b the person has, or has had, within the previous 10 years, a protection order, other than a temporary order, made against them under— i section 79 of the Family Violence Act 2018 ; or ii section 14 of the Domestic Violence Act 1995 ; or c the person is subject to a firearms prohibition order; or d the person is a gang member. 69 Persons who may be found not fit and proper to hold firearms licence The chief executive may find that a person is not a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence if the chief executive is satisfied that the person— a is charged with or has been convicted of an offence in New Zealand or overseas that is punishable by a term of imprisonment (including, but not limited to, an offence involving violence, drugs, or alcohol); or b is charged with or has been convicted of an offence under offence against this Act; or c is charged with or has been convicted of an offence against— i section 231A of the Crimes Act 1961 ; or ii the Game Animal Council Act 2013 ; or iii the Wildlife Act 1953 ; or iv the Wild Animal Control Act 1977 ; or d has, or has had at any time, a firearms prohibition order made against them; or e has, or has had at any time, a temporary protection order made against them under— i section 79 of the Family Violence Act 2018 ; or ii section 14 of the Domestic Violence Act 1995 ; or f is inflicting, or has inflicted, or is inflicting, family violence against another person and that other person has grounds under the Family Violence Act 2018 to apply for a protection order in respect of that violence; or g has, or has had at any time, a restraining order made against them under the Harassment Act 1997 ; or h has engaged in any conduct involving non-compliance with any requirements of— i this Act; or ia the Arms Act 1983 (the former Act ); or ii any regulations made under this Act or the former Act (including the Arms Regulations 1992) ; or iii any conditions to which a licence, endorsement, or permit previously issued to the person under this Act or the former Act was subject; or i shows, or has recently shown, symptoms of a mental or physical illness or injury that may adversely affect their ability to safely possess firearms; or j abuses alcohol, or is dependent on alcohol, to an extent that detrimentally affects their judgement or behaviour; or k uses drugs (illegal or legal) in a way that detrimentally affects detrimentally their judgement or behaviour; or l is a member of an organised criminal group; or m has close affiliations with a gang or an organised criminal group; or n has shown patterns of behaviour demonstrating a tendency to exhibit, encourage, or promote violence, hatred, or extremism; or o has been assessed as a risk to the national security of New Zealand or another State; or p meets any other prescribed criteria for finding that a person is not a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence. In determining whether, for the purposes of this Act, a person is a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence, the chief executive may take into account— a whether the person— i has a sound knowledge of the safe possession and use of firearms; and ii understands the legal obligations of a firearms licence holder, including the endorsements that may be made on a firearms licence; and b any other prescribed criteria for finding that a person is a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence; and c any other matters the chief executive considers relevant. The chief executive may, for the purpose of determining whether a person is a fit and proper person to be issued with hold a firearms licence,— a seek and receive any information that the chief executive considers relevant; and b consider information obtained from any source. If the chief executive proposes to take into account any information that is or may be prejudicial to an applicant’s application, the chief executive must, subject to section 72 , disclose that information to the applicant and give the applicant a reasonable opportunity to refute or comment on it. In this section, family violence has the same meaning as in section 9 of the Family Violence Act 2018 . 70 Issue of firearms licence The chief executive must issue a firearms licence to an applicant if the chief executive is satisfied— a that the applicant— i is not disqualified from holding a firearms licence; and ii is a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence; and b that the applicant’s storage facilities for their firearms , and ammunition , and restricted ammunition (if any) have been inspected by an arms officer and found to be compliant with the requirements for the secure storage of firearms and ammunition . However, a firearms licence must not be issued to an applicant if, in the chief executive’s opinion, access to any firearm , or an airgun , or ammunition in possession of the applicant is reasonably likely to be obtained by any person who— a is disqualified under section 68 from holding a firearms licence; or b has had their firearms licence revoked; or c is not a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence. As soon as is reasonably practicable after issuing a firearms licence to an applicant, the chief executive must notify the applicant’s health practitioner that the applicant has been issued with a firearms licence. 71 Certain information to be provided to applicant if licence application not granted If the chief executive decides not to issue a firearms licence to an applicant, the chief executive must— a inform the applicant of— i their decision; and ii the reasons for their decision (except to the extent that section 72 applies): b inform the applicant of the right to apply under section 79 for a review of the decision not to issue a firearms licence to them. 72 Disclosure of certain matters to applicant not required Nothing in section 69(4) or 71(a)(ii) requires the chief executive to disclose any information to an applicant if the disclosure would be likely to— a endanger the safety of any person; or b prejudice the maintenance of the law: or c prejudice the security or defence of New Zealand or the international relations of the Government of New Zealand; or d prejudice the entrusting of information to the Arms Regulator, the Police, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, or the Government Communications Security Bureau on a basis of confidence by— i the government Government of any other country, or an agency of the government Government of any other country; or ii any international organisation. 73 Conditions of firearms licence: general A firearms licence is subject to the conditions that the firearms licence holder must— a comply with all prescribed requirements relating to the secure storage of arms items and ammunition in their possession; and b when using an arms item and ammunition, act in a way that does not pose a risk to themselves or others; and c produce any arms items and ammunition that they possess to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and d permit an arms officer to inspect all arms items and ammunition in the licence holder’s possession, the place or places where the arms items are or will be kept, and the place or places where the ammunition is or will be kept, and, for those purposes, to enter at all reasonable times upon the premises where that place or those places are situated; and e permit an arms officer to inspect the security arrangements in any vehicle used by the licence holder to transport the licence holder’s firearms; and f inform the chief executive if, after the issue of the licence, any of the circumstances described in section 69(1) apply to the licence holder; and g inform the chief executive if their health practitioner changes, and provide updated details of the name and contact details of their health practitioner. It is the duty of an arms officer exercising any power conferred by subsection (1)(d) or (e) — a to give at least 7 days’ notice of the proposed inspection; and b to identify themselves to the holder of the firearms licence and provide evidence that they are an arms officer ; and c to tell the holder of the firearms licence that the power is being exercised under subsection (1)(d) or (e) , as the case may be ; and . d if the arms officer is not in uniform, to produce on initial entry, and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are an arms officer. Subsections (1)(d) and (2) are subject to section 186 if the licence bears an endorsement. 74 Conditions of firearms licence: other The chief executive may issue a firearms licence subject to any other conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate. If the chief executive issues a firearms licence subject to any other conditions, the chief executive must inform the applicant of the right to apply under section 79 for a review of the decision to impose those conditions. 75 Breach of conditions in section s 73 or 74 A firearms licence holder who breaches a condition that their licence is subject to under section 73 or 74 may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with a notice of suspension under section 145 ; or c be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified as an infringement offence; or d have their firearms licence revoked under section 151 . 76 Duration of firearms licence: general A firearms licence comes into force on the date specified in the licence and, unless sooner revoked or surrendered,— a expires 5 years from after that date in the case of— i a licence issued to a person who has never previously held a firearms licence; or ii a licence issued to a person whose previous licence was revoked or surrendered; or iii a licence issued to a person who allowed their previous licence to expire without applying for a new licence before the expiry date: b expires 10 years from after that date in any other case. See sections 77 and 78 section 78 , which provide provides that in certain circumstances a firearms licence may continue in force for an extended period. 77 Extension of firearms licence for up to 3 years pending determination of application for new firearms licence This section applies if the holder of a current firearms licence ( licence A ) makes an application for a new firearms licence— a before the expiry of licence A; and b that satisfies the prescribed criteria. Before the expiry date of licence A, and pending determination of the application, the chief executive may— a extend the expiry date of licence A by up to 3 years; and b reissue licence A showing the extended expiry date. A licence reissued under subsection (2) — a takes effect from the expiry date of licence A; and b continues in force, unless it is sooner surrendered or revoked, until the date on which the licence holder is notified of the determination of their application. A new licence issued on an application takes effect from the date of its issue. 78 Extension of firearms licence in other cases pending determination of application for new firearms licence This section applies if the holder of a current firearms licence ( licence A ) makes an application for a new firearms licence before the expiry of licence A. — a before the expiry of licence A; and b the chief executive does not extend the expiry date of licence A under section 77 . If the application is not determined before the expiry of licence A, licence A continues in force, unless it is sooner surrendered or revoked, until the date on which the licence holder is notified of the determination of the application. The chief executive may, on the application of the holder of licence A, provide to the holder of licence A written confirmation that licence A is extended. A new licence issued on an application takes effect from— a the date on which licence A expires if the new licence is issued before licence A expires; or b the date on which the new licence is issued if the new licence is issued after licence A expires. 79 Application for review of firearms licensing decision A person may apply for a review of a decision made by the chief executive to— a decline to issue the person with a firearms licence: b impose a condition on the person’s firearms licence: c revoke the person’s firearms licence. An application for a review must be made within 90 days after the date on which the person receives notice of the decision. An application for review must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b specify— i the decision that the applicant wishes to be reviewed; and ii the reasons why the applicant thinks the decision should be reviewed; and iii the outcome the applicant is seeking; and iv any other prescribed details; and c be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 80 Chief executive to refer application to Firearms Licensing Review Committee As soon as practicable after receiving an application for a review, the chief executive must— a refer the application to the Review Committee; and b determine which panel of the Review Committee is to conduct the review. 81 Outcome of review After conducting a review of a decision, the panel of the Review Committee may do any of the following: a confirm or reverse the decision not to issue the person with a firearms licence: b confirm or reverse the decision to revoke a person’s firearms licence: c confirm, vary, or reverse the decision to impose a condition on the person’s firearms licence: d impose a new condition on the person’s firearms licence. The chief executive panel of the Review Committee must, as soon as practicable, notify the applicant and the chief executive of— a the panel’s decision on the review; and b the reasons for that decision; and c the applicant’s right, under section 341(1)(c) , to appeal to the District Court against the panel’s decision; and d the chief executive’s right, under section 341(3) , to appeal to the District Court against the panel’s decision. The original decision remains in force for 5 working days after the panel’s decision is notified to the applicant. 82 Application for business licence An application for a business licence must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b specify— i the business activities for which the business licence is sought; and ii the class or classes of arms items in respect of which those business activities will be carried on; and iii the place of business from which the business activities will be carried on; and iv if it is intended that the business activities may occasionally be carried on at more than 1 place of business in accordance with section 86 or 87 , the following details in respect of each proposed place of business: A the name of the manager of the place of business; and B the address of the place of business; and v any other prescribed details; and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). An application for a business licence to carry on the business activity specified in section 6(1)(a)(iii) relating to the manufacture of any restricted items may only be made by a person who, before 12 April 2019, was in the business of manufacturing restricted parts and restricted magazines and restricted parts for the purposes of permitted supply and who continues, for the purposes of permitted supply, to manufacture restricted parts and restricted magazines. An application for a business licence to carry on the business activity specified in section 6(1)(a)(v) relating to the manufacture of restricted parts and restricted magazines and restricted parts and using restricted items for the purpose of testing may only be made by a person who, before 12 April 2019, was in the business of permitted supply and the person who continues, for the purposes of permitted supply, to use restricted items to test and demonstrate restricted parts and restricted magazines. In subsections (2) and (3) , permitted supply means— a the supply of restricted parts to the Crown that is permitted under section 13(3) or (4) : b the export of restricted parts to any person that is permitted or authorised under the Customs and Excise Act 2018 : c the supply of restricted parts to other persons expressly permitted or authorised under this Act to possess restricted parts. 83 Fit and proper person to hold business licence In deciding whether, for the purposes of section 84(1)(b)(i) , an applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a business licence, the chief executive— a must take into account the character and reputation of the applicant, and whether the applicant— i has the competencies and resources to carry on the business activity or activities for which the business licence is sought; and ii has any convictions; and iii has a sound knowledge of firearms; and iv understands the legal obligations of a business licence holder; and v understands the legal obligations of a firearms licence holder, including an understanding of the endorsements that may be made on a firearms licence, and is able to provide advice on those obligations; and b may take into account any other matters the chief executive considers relevant. 84 Issue of business licence The chief executive may issue a business licence to an applicant authorising the applicant to carry on 1 or more specified business activities in respect of 1 or more specified classes of arms items if— a the applicant holds a firearms licence; and b the chief executive is satisfied that— i the applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a business licence to carry on the business activity or activities; and ii in the place of business from which the business activity or activities will be carried on, there are secure storage facilities appropriate for the class and number of arms items and any ammunition that may be possessed in the course of carrying on the business activity or activities; and iii the applicant or, if the applicant is a senior manager of a body corporate who is applying for a business licence so that the body corporate is authorised to carry on a business activity, the body corporate has appropriate record-keeping systems and other systems to comply with the requirements of this Act and any regulations; and iv if it is intended that the business activities will be carried on at more than 1 place of business in reliance on section 86 or 87 , there will be, at each of those places, a senior manager who holds a business licence and who has appropriate oversight and control of the proposed business activity or activities to be carried on at that place. A business licence that is issued to an applicant for the carrying on of a business activity in respect of any of the following classes of arms items must bear an appropriate endorsement: a restricted firearms: b restricted magazines: c pistols: d large-capacity pistol magazines: e pistol carbine conversion kits: f restricted weapons. A business licence must specify— a the business activity or activities that the licence holder is authorised to carry on; and b the class or classes of arms items in respect of which that activity or those activities may be carried on. 85 Business licence issued for carrying on of business activities from 1 place of business A business licence authorises business activities to be carried on from 1 place of business only and must specify that place of business. 86 Carrying on of business activities from other places of business permitted in certain circumstances This section applies despite section 85 . Any firearms, restricted magazines, and restricted weapons in the possession of a licensed business may be handled at any site in addition to the place of business specified in the business licence if the licensed business hires out those items for use by a broadcaster, bona fide theatre company or society, cinematic or television film production company, or video recording production company and— a the handling and secure storage of the items at that site are supervised by a theatrical armourer; and b the armourer has a firearms licence that bears an endorsement specifying that— i the items may be handled at sites other than the place of business of the licensed business; and ii the armourer must hold written consent from the chief executive that specifies the location of the site and the duration and description of the theatrical production at that site. A licensed business may, on an occasional basis, carry on business activities from places additional to the place of business specified in the business licence if a condition to which the licence is subject permits them to do so. For the purpose s of subsection (2)(b) (3) , a business licence may be issued with a condition described in that provision and other conditions necessary to provide for the safe use and secure storage of the firearms concerned. 87 Gun shows This section applies despite section 85 . The chief executive may consent to a business licence applying to a place of business other than the place of business specified in the licence (a second place of business ) for a period not exceeding 5 days at any one time to enable the licensed business to conduct a gun show at the second place of business. A consent may be given under subsection (1) (2) — a subject to any specified conditions; and b only if the chief executive is satisfied with all security arrangements at the second place of business. 88 Hiring out firearms for use by bona fide theatre company, etc This section applies if a licensed business hires out standard firearms, restricted firearms, pistols, restricted weapons, or restricted magazines for use by a bona fide theatre company or society, cinematic or television film production company, or video recording production company. The use of the standard firearms, restricted firearms, pistols, restricted weapons, or restricted magazines by members of the company or society must be supervised by an on-site theatrical armourer. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . 89 Business licence not transferable A business licence is personal to the person to whom it is issued and may not be transferred to any other person. 90 Conditions of business licence: employees A business licence is issued subject to the condition that the licensed business must ensure that all employees who may handle arms items and ammunition in the course of carrying out their duties— a hold a firearms licence; and b receive appropriate training in relation to the arms items and ammunition they will handle; and c have the appropriate competency to handle the arms items and the ammunition. A business licence is also issued subject to the condition that the licensed business must notify the chief executive as soon as is reasonably practicable after— a the licensed business employs or engages a person who may handle arms items and ammunition in the course of carrying out their duties: b a person referred to in paragraph (a) is no longer employed or engaged by the licensed business. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) breaches any condition that their licence is subject to under subsections (1) and (2) . 91 Conditions of business licence: secure storage requirements A business licence is issued subject to the condition that the licensed business complies with all prescribed requirements relating to the secure storage of arms items. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes breaches the condition that their licence is subject to under subsection (1) . 92 Conditions of business licence: production and inspection of arms item and ammunition A business licence is issued subject to the conditions that the licence holder and any employee of the licensed business must— a produce any arms item and ammunition they possess to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and b permit an arms officer to inspect any arms item and ammunition and the place where it is kept, and, for that purpose, to enter at all reasonable times upon the premises where the place is situated. It is the duty of an arms officer exercising any power conferred by subsection (1)(b) — a to identify themselves to the person in possession of the arms item and ammunition and provide evidence that they are an arms officer ; and b to tell the person in possession of the arms item and ammunition that the power is being exercised under subsection (1)(b) ; and . c if the arms officer is not in uniform, to produce on initial entry, and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are an arms officer. Subsections (1)(b) and (2) are subject to section 186 if the licence bears an endorsement. 93 Conditions of business licence: other The chief executive may issue a business licence subject to any other conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate. 94 Breach of conditions in section 92 or 93 If a licensed business breaches a condition that is imposed on the business licence under section 92 or 93 , the business licence holder may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with a notice of suspension under section 145 ; or c be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified as an infringement offence; or d have the business licence revoked under section 152 . 95 Duration of business licence A business licence comes into force on the date specified in the licence and, unless sooner revoked or surrendered,— a expires 1 year from after that date in the case of a licence issued to a person who— i has never previously held a business licence; or ii has held a business licence for less than 2 years; or iii has surrendered, or has had revoked, a previous business licence in the last 2 years: b expires 5 years from after that date in any other case. 96 Extension of business licence pending determination of application for new business licence The holder of a current business licence ( licence A ) may, before the expiry of licence A, apply for a new business licence. If an application for a new business licence is made but not determined before the expiry of licence A, licence A continues in force, unless it is sooner surrendered or revoked, until the date on which the licence holder is notified of the determination of the application. The chief executive may, on the application of the holder of licence A, provide to the holder of licence A written confirmation that licence A is extended. A new licence issued on an application made under this section takes effect from— a the date on which licence A expires, if the new licence is issued before licence A expires; or b the date on which the new licence is issued, if the new licence is issued after licence A expires. 97 Keeping records A licensed business must keep at the place of business referred to in the business licence a record of the prescribed particulars relating to transactions conducted in the course of carrying on all business activities that involve the receipt, sale, supply, or manufacture of arms items or ammunition. A licensed business that keeps its records under subsection (1) in hard copy form must retain the records for at least 10 years from after the date of the last entry in the book. A licensed business that keeps its records under subsection (1) electronically in electronic form must retain each electronic record for at least 10 years from after the date on which the record is entered. A licensed business must at all times— a permit an arms officer to inspect and make copies of the records kept under subsection (1) , or any entry in those records; and b provide to an arms officer on demand all further information in its possession with respect to any dealings by it relating to arms items and ammunition. Despite subsection (1) , particulars do not need to be recorded under that subsection if— a the particulars are declared by regulations made under section 362 to be exempt from the requirement in that subsection; or b the licensed business provides the particulars to the chief executive in accordance with the regulations. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. Subsection (6) is subject to section 332(9) . 98 Ceasing to carry on business activities An individual who holds a business licence must inform the chief executive if the individual ceases to carry on 1 or more of the business activities specified in their business licence. A senior manager of a body corporate who holds a business licence that authorises a body corporate to carry on 1 or more business activities must inform the chief executive if— a the body corporate ceases to carry on any of the business activities; or b the senior manager ceases to be a senior manager of the body corporate. An individual who is a licensed business, or the senior manager of a body corporate that is a licensed business, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licensed business, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. A business licence is revoked when a licensed business ceases to carry on business activities ( see section 152 ). 99 Application for museum licence A person may apply for a museum licence if the person— a is, or is to be, appointed as— i a senior manager of a museum; or ii a curator of a museum; and b holds a firearms licence. An application for a museum licence must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b specify— i the name and address of the museum at which the applicant works , or will work; and ii any class or classes of arms items proposed to be possessed, displayed, and stored in that museum; and iia any type or types of ammunition proposed to be possessed, displayed, and stored in that museum; and iib any type or types of restricted ammunition proposed to be possessed, displayed, and stored in that museum; and iii any other prescribed details; and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). 100 Fit and proper person to hold museum licence In deciding whether, for the purposes of section 101(1)(a)(ii) , an applicant is a fit and proper person to hold a museum licence, the chief executive— a must take into account the character and reputation of the applicant, and whether the applicant— i has the competencies and resources to possess, display, and store in the museum the class or classes of arms items specified in the application (if any); and ia has the competencies and resources to possess, display, and store in the museum the types of ammunition specified in the application (if any); and ib has the competencies and resources to possess, display, and store in the museum the types of restricted ammunition specified in the application (if any); and ii has any convictions; and iii has a sound knowledge of firearms; and iv understands the legal obligations of a museum licence holder; and b may take into account any other matters the chief executive considers relevant. 101 Issue of museum licence The chief executive may issue a museum licence to an applicant if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the applicant— i holds a firearms licence; and ii is a fit and proper person to possess, display, and store— A the class or classes of arms items specified in the applicant’s application (if any); and B the type or types of ammunition specified in the applicant’s application (if any); and C the type or types of restricted ammunition specified in the applicant’s application (if any); and b the museum specified in the application has secure storage facilities appropriate for— i the class or classes of arms items specified in the applicant’s application (if any); and ii the type or types of ammunition specified in the applicant’s application (if any); and iii the type or types of restricted ammunition specified in the applicant’s application (if any). A museum licence issued to a senior manager or curator of a museum authorises the licence holder to possess, display, and store in the museum— a the 1 or more classes of arms items specified in the licence: b the 1 or more types of ammunition specified in the licence: c the 1 or more types of restricted ammunition specified in the licence. Subsection (2) is subject to subsections (4) to (6) . A museum licence issued to a senior manager or curator of a museum authorises the licence holder to possess, display, and store in the museum any of the following classes of arms items only if the museum licence bears an appropriate endorsement authorising the possession of the class of arms item s and a permit to possess the arms items: a restricted firearms: b restricted magazines: c pistols: d pistol carbine conversion kits: e restricted weapons. A museum licence issued to a senior manager or curator of a museum authorises the licence holder to possess, display, and store in the museum any large-capacity pistol magazines only if the museum licence bears an endorsement authorising the possession of a pistol. A museum licence issued to a senior manager or curator of a museum authorises the licence holder to possess, display, and store in the museum any restricted parts only if the museum licence bears an endorsement authorising the possession of a restricted firearm. 103 Museum licence not transferable A museum licence is personal to the licence holder and may not be transferred to any other person. 106A Condition of museum licence: secure storage requirements A museum licence is issued subject to the condition that the licence holder must comply with all prescribed requirements relating to the secure storage of arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in their possession or under their control. A museum licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $5,000, if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes breaches the condition that their licence is subject to under subsection (1) . 106B Conditions of museum licence: production of arms item, ammunition, and restricted ammunition on demand A museum licence is issued subject to the conditions that the licence holder must— a produce any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition they possess to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and b permit an arms officer to inspect the arms item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition and its storage or display in the museum. An arms officer exercising a power conferred by subsection (1)(b) must— a identify themselves to the licence holder and provide evidence that they are an arms officer ; and b tell the licence holder that the power is being exercised under subsection (1)(b) ; and . c if the arms officer is not in uniform, produce on initial entry, and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are an arms officer. Subsections (1)(b) and (2) are subject to section 186 if the licence bears an endorsement. 106C Conditions of museum licence: other A museum licence may be issued subject to any other conditions the chief executive considers appropriate. 106D Breach of conditions in section 106B or 106C A museum licence holder who breaches a condition that their licence is subject to under section 106B or 106C may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with a notice of suspension under section 145 ; or c be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified as an infringement offence; or d have their licence revoked under section 153 . 107 Duration of museum licence A museum licence comes into force on the date specified in the licence and, unless sooner revoked or surrendered,— a expires 1 year from after that date in the case of a licence issued to a licence holder who— i has never previously held a museum licence; or ii has held a museum licence for less than 2 years; or iii has surrendered, or has had revoked, a previous museum licence in the last 2 years: b expires 5 years from after that date in any other case. 108 Extension of museum licence pending determination of application for new museum licence The holder of a current museum licence ( licence A ) may, before the expiry of licence A, apply for a new museum licence. If an application for a new museum licence is made but not determined before the expiry of licence A, licence A continues in force, unless it is sooner surrendered or revoked, until the date on which the licence holder is notified of the determination of the application. The chief executive may, on the application of the holder of licence A, provide to the holder of licence A written confirmation that licence A is extended. A new licence issued on an application made under this section takes effect from— a the date on which licence A expires if the new licence is issued before licence A expires; or b the date on which the new licence is issued if the new licence is issued after licence A expires. 109 Keeping records A museum licence holder must ensure that a record is kept of the prescribed particulars for the arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition held at the museum. Records in hard copy form must be retained for at least 10 years from after the date of the last entry in the records. Each record in electronic form must be retained for at least 10 years from after the date on which the record was entered. A museum licence holder must, at all times,— a permit an arms officer to inspect and make copies of the records kept under subsection (1) , or any entry in those records; and b provide to an arms officer on demand all further information in their possession with respect to any arms item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition. Despite subsection (1) , particulars do not need to be recorded under that subsection if— a the particulars are declared by regulations made under section 362 to be exempt from the requirement in that subsection; or b the museum licence holder provides the particulars to the chief executive in accordance with the regulations. A museum licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 110 Ceasing to be senior manager or curator of museum A museum licence holder must inform the chief executive if they cease to be a senior manager or curator of the museum specified in their licence. A museum licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . A museum licence is revoked when the licence holder ceases to be a senior manager or curator of the museum specified in the licence ( see section 153 ). 111 Application for museum worker licence A person who is a museum worker, or proposing to work in a museum, may apply for a museum worker licence if the person— a is, or will be, required to possess, display, and store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition in the performance of their duties; and b is of or over the age of 16 years; and c is not disqualified under section 68 from holding a firearms licence; and d has not had a firearms licence revoked in the previous 5 years (or, if they have, the revocation was reversed by the Review Committee or District Court). An application for a museum worker licence must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b specify— i the name and address of the museum at which the applicant works , or proposes to will work; and ii the class or classes of arms items proposed to be possessed, displayed, and stored in that museum by the applicant; and iia the types of ammunition and restricted ammunition (if any) proposed to be possessed, displayed, and stored in that museum by the applicant; and iii any other prescribed details; and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). 112 Issue of museum worker licence The chief executive may grant a museum worker licence to an applicant if— a the museum at which the applicant works , or proposes to will work , is a licensed museum; and b the chief executive is satisfied that the applicant— i meets the criteria specified in section 111(1) ; and ii is a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence ( see section 69 ). A museum worker licence authorises the licence holder to possess, display, and store in the museum specified in the licence— a the 1 or more classes of arms items specified in the licence; and b the 1 or more types of ammunition specified in the licence; and c the 1 or more types of restricted ammunition specified in the licence. 113 Museum worker licence not transferable A museum worker licence is personal to the person to whom it is issued and may not be transferred to any other person. 114 Conditions of museum worker licence: general A museum worker licence is issued subject to the conditions that the licence holder must,— a when possessing, displaying, and storing any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition, act in a way that does not pose a risk to themselves or others; and b produce any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition they possess to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and c inform the chief executive if, after the issue of their licence, any of the circumstances described in section 69(1) apply to them. 115 Conditions of museum worker licence: other A museum worker licence may be issued subject to any other conditions the chief executive considers appropriate. 116 Breach of conditions in sections 114 and 115 A museum worker licence holder who breaches a condition that their licence is subject to under section 114 or 115 may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with a notice of suspension under section 145 ; or c be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified as an infringement offence; or d have their licence revoked under section 154 . 117 Duration of museum worker licence: general A museum worker licence comes into force on the date specified in the licence and, unless sooner revoked or surrendered,— a expires 5 years from after that date in the case of a licence issued to a licence holder who— i has never previously held a museum worker licence; or ii has surrendered a previous museum worker licence; or iia has had a previous museum worker licence revoked; or iii has allowed their previous museum worker licence to expire without applying for a new licence before the expiry date: b expires 10 years from after that date in any other case. 118 Extension of museum worker licence pending determination of application for new museum worker licence The holder of a current museum worker licence ( licence A ) may, before the expiry of licence A, apply for a new museum worker licence. If an application for a new museum worker licence is made but not determined before the expiry of licence A, licence A continues in force, unless it is sooner surrendered or revoked, until the date on which the licence holder is notified of the determination of the application. The chief executive may, on the application of the holder of licence A, provide to the holder of licence A written confirmation that licence A is extended. A new licence issued on an application made under this section takes effect from— a the date on which licence A expires, if the new licence is issued before licence A expires; or b the date on which the new licence is issued, if the new licence is issued after licence A expires. 119 Licensed museum worker to notify chief executive on ceasing work A museum worker licence holder must notify the chief executive when they cease working at the museum specified in their licence. A museum worker licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 120 Museum worker to surrender licence on ceasing work A museum worker licence holder who ceases working at the museum specified in their licence must surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. A museum worker licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 121 Application for visitor licence A visitor who intends to possess and use a standard firearm or pistol in New Zealand unsupervised must hold a visitor licence. A visitor may apply for a visitor licence if the visitor is— a of or over the age of 16 years; and b not disqualified from holding a visitor licence. An application for a visitor licence must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). 122 Persons disqualified from holding visitor licence A person is disqualified from holding a visitor licence if the person has, within the previous 10 years, been convicted, or been released from custody after being convicted, in New Zealand or overseas of any of the following types of offences: a an offence involving serious violence: b an offence relating to the use, possession, or supply of drugs: c an offence involving dishonesty. 123 Persons who may be found not fit and proper to hold visitor licence The chief executive may find that a person is not a fit and proper person to hold a visitor licence if the chief executive is satisfied that the person— a is charged with or has been convicted of an offence that is punishable by a term of imprisonment (including, but not limited to, an offence involving violence, drugs, or alcohol); or b is charged with or has been convicted of an offence under offence against this Act; or c is charged with or has been convicted of an offence against— i section 231A of the Crimes Act 1961 ; or ii the Game Animal Council Act 2013 ; or iii the Wildlife Act 1953 ; or iv the Wild Animal Control Act 1977 ; or d has, or has had at any time, a firearms prohibition order made against them; or e has, or has had at any time, a temporary protection order made against them under— i section 79 of the Family Violence Act 2018 ; or ii section 14 of the Domestic Violence Act 1995 ; or f is inflicting, or has inflicted, or is inflicting, family violence against another person and that other person has grounds under the Family Violence Act 2018 to apply for a protection order in respect of that violence; or g has, or has had at any time, a restraining order made against them under the Harassment Act 1997 ; or h overseas,— i has been charged with or convicted of an offence equivalent to the offences referred to in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) : ii has had an order made against them equivalent to the orders referred to in paragraphs (d) and (e) : iii has been, or is, the respondent in proceedings brought against them for an order of the kind referred to in paragraphs (f) and (g) ; or i has engaged in any conduct involving non-compliance with any requirements of— i this Act; or ia the Arms Act 1983 (the former Act ); or ii any regulations made under this Act or the former Act (including the Arms Regulations 1992) ; or iii any conditions to which a licence, endorsement, or permit previously issued to the person under this Act or the former Act was subject; or j shows, or has recently shown, symptoms of a mental or physical illness or injury that may adversely affect their ability to safely possess firearms; or k abuses alcohol, or is dependent on alcohol, to an extent that detrimentally affects detrimentally their judgement or behaviour; or l uses drugs (illegal or legal) in a way that detrimentally affects detrimentally their judgement or behaviour; or m is a member of an organised criminal group; or n has close affiliations with a gang or an organised criminal group; or o has shown patterns of behaviour demonstrating a tendency to exhibit, encourage, or promote violence, hatred, or extremism; or p has been assessed as a risk to the national security of New Zealand or another State; or q meets any other prescribed criteria for finding that a person is not a fit and proper person to hold a visitor licence. In determining whether, for the purposes of this Act, a person is a fit and proper person to hold a visitor licence, the chief executive may take into account— a whether the person— i has a sound knowledge of the safe possession and use of standard firearms or pistols : ; and ii understands the legal obligations of a firearms licence holder, including the endorsements that may be made on a firearms licence; and b any other prescribed criteria for finding that a person is a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence; and c any other matters the chief executive considers relevant. The chief executive may, for the purpose of determining whether a person is a fit and proper person to be issued with hold a visitor licence,— a seek and receive any information that the chief executive thinks appropriate; and b consider information obtained from any source. If the chief executive proposes to take into account any information that is or may be prejudicial to an applicant’s application, the chief executive must, subject to section 126 , disclose that information to the applicant and give the applicant a reasonable opportunity to refute or comment on it. In this section, family violence has the same meaning as in section 9 of the Family Violence Act 2018 . 124 Issue of visitor licence The chief executive may issue a visitor licence to an applicant if the chief executive is satisfied— a that the applicant— i meets the criteria specified in section 121(2) ; and ii is a fit and proper person to hold a visitor licence; and b with the arrangements made by the applicant for the secure storage of the firearms and ammunition they will possess while in New Zealand. However, a visitor licence must not be issued to an applicant if, in the chief executive’s opinion, access to any firearm or an airgun in possession of the applicant is reasonably likely to be obtained by any person who— a is disqualified under section 68 from holding a firearms licence; or b has had their firearms licence revoked in New Zealand; or c has had their overseas firearms licence revoked; or d has had a visitor licence revoked in the previous 5 years; or e is not a fit and proper person to be in possession of a firearm or an airgun. 125 Chief executive to provide certain information to applicant if licence application not granted If the chief executive does not issue a visitor licence to an applicant, the chief executive must— a inform the applicant of— i the decision; and ii the reasons for the decision (except to the extent that section 126 applies): b inform the applicant that the applicant has a right of appeal under section 341 . 126 Disclosure of certain matters to applicant not required Nothing in section 123(4) or 125(a)(ii) requires the chief executive to disclose any information to an applicant if the disclosure would be likely to— a endanger the safety of any person; or b prejudice the security or defence of New Zealand or the international relations of the Government of New Zealand; or c prejudice the entrusting of information to the Police, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, or the Government Communications Security Bureau on a basis of confidence by— i the government Government of any other country, or an agency of the government Government of any other country; or ii any international organisation. 127 Conditions of visitor licence: general A visitor licence is subject to the conditions that the visitor licence holder must— a comply with all prescribed requirements relating to the secure storage of any standard firearms, pistols, and ammunition they possess; and b when using a standard firearm or pistol, act in a way that does not pose a risk to themselves or others; and c produce any standard firearms, pistols, and ammunition they possess to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and d permit an arms officer to inspect all standard firearms, pistols, and ammunition in the licence holder’s possession, the place or places where the standard firearms and pistols are or will be kept, and the place or places where the ammunition is or will be kept, and, for those purposes, to enter at all reasonable times upon the premises where that place or those places are situated; and e permit an arms officer to inspect the security arrangements in any vehicle used by the licence holder to transport the licence holder’s firearms; and f inform the chief executive if, after the issue of the licence, any of the circumstances described in section 123(1) apply to the licence holder. It is the duty of an arms officer exercising any power conferred by subsection (1)(d) or (e) — a to give at least 7 days’ notice of the proposed inspection under subsection (1)(c) or (d) ; and b to identify themselves to the visitor licence holder and provide evidence that they are an arms officer ; and c to tell the visitor licence holder that the power is being exercised under subsection (1)(d) or (e) , as the case may be ; and . d if the arms officer is not in uniform, to produce on initial entry, and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are an arms officer. Subsections (1)(d) and (2) are subject to section 186 if the licence bears an endorsement. 128 Conditions of visitor licence: other The chief executive may issue a visitor licence subject to any other conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate. 129 Breach of conditions in sections 127 and 128 A visitor licence holder who breaches a condition that their licence is subject to under section 127 or 128 may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified as an infringement offence; or c have their visitor licence revoked under section 155 . 130 Duration of visitor licence A visitor licence may be issued to the person for— a 1 visit to New Zealand; or b 2 or more visits to New Zealand. A licence issued under subsection (1)(a) is subject to the condition that, unless sooner revoked or surrendered, it expires on the earlier of the following: a the date specified in the licence, which must not be more than 1 year from after the date of issue: b the date on which the person leaves New Zealand. A licence issued under subsection (1)(b) is subject to the condition that, unless sooner revoked or surrendered, it expires on the date specified in the licence, which must not be more than 18 months from after the date of issue. 131 Visitors may not take ownership of firearm or restricted weapon A visitor who holds a visitor licence may only possess, during their stay in New Zealand,— a a standard firearm: b a blank-firing gun: c an airgun (including a restricted airgun): d a pistol if their visitor licence has an appropriate endorsement: e a standard magazine: f a large-capacity pistol magazine if their visitor licence has an appropriate endorsement: g a non-restricted part: h ammunition. A visitor who holds a visitor licence may not, during their stay in New Zealand , — a acquire ownership of any firearm or restricted weapon for possession in New Zealand: b sell any arms item. A visitor commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the visitor, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 132 Production of licence if required A licence holder must— a produce their licence for inspection whenever required to do so by— i an arms officer; or ii a Police employee: b maintain their licence in such a condition that it may be produced in an unspoilt and legible condition. A licence holder complies with subsection (1)(a) if, within 7 days after being required to produce their licence, the licence holder produces it at a place specified by the arms officer or Police employee. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with this section. 133 Notification of change of address The holder of a firearms licence or visitor licence who changes their address must, within 30 days after doing so, give written notice of the change to the chief executive. The holder of a firearms licence or visitor licence that bears an endorsement permitting possession of a pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, restricted weapon, restricted firearm, or restricted magazine who intends to change their address must notify the chief executive of the arrangements made for the safe custody of the pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, restricted weapon, restricted firearm, or restricted magazine during its shift to the new address. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . 134 Notification if licence lost or stolen A licence holder must, as soon as practicable, notify the chief executive of any loss or theft of their licence. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 135 Notification of loss, theft, or destruction of certain arms items This section applies if any of the following arms items are lost, stolen, or destroyed: a a standard firearm: b a pistol: c a large-capacity pistol magazine: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a restricted item: f a major firearm part: g a restricted weapon. A licence holder must— a immediately notify an arms officer or a Police employee of the loss, theft, or destruction of the arms item; and b give all information in their possession relating to the loss, theft, or destruction to the arms officer or Police employee. A notification under subsection (2) must be given in the form and manner approved by the chief executive or Commissioner. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (2) . 136 Notification of non-delivery of certain arms items If the holder of a firearms licence, business licence, or museum licence purchases any of the following arms items and the item is not delivered to the licence holder within a reasonable time, the licence holder must, as soon as they have established that the item has not been delivered or has gone missing, notify the chief executive of the occurrence: a a standard firearm: b a pistol: c a large-capacity pistol magazine: d a pistol carbine conversion kit: e a restricted item: f a major firearm part: g a restricted weapon. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 137 Notification of removal of pistol, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, or restricted weapon out of New Zealand The holder of a firearms licence, business licence, museum licence, or visitor licence who intends to remove any pistol, restricted weapon, restricted firearm, or restricted magazine , or restricted weapon from New Zealand must— a give not less than 4 days’ notice of the intended removal to the chief executive; and b deliver to the chief executive their licence for the endorsement to be amended. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 138 Unsafe arms items If in the opinion of an arms officer any arms item is unsafe, the arms officer may, by notice in writing to the licence holder in possession of the arms item, require the licence holder to ensure that, within a period or by a date specified in the notice, the arms item is— a brought to a safe standard of repair; and b produced to an arms officer. If a licence holder fails to comply with a notice given to them under subsection (1) in respect of an arms item, an arms officer may, by notice in writing to the licence holder, require the licence holder to immediately deliver the arms item to an arms officer or a Police employee. A licence holder who receives a notice under subsection (1) or (2) may appeal under section 341 against the requirement in the notice, and section 341 applies with all necessary modifications. A licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with a notice given to them under subsection (2) in respect of an arms item. Nothing in this section applies in respect of an antique firearm. 139 Surrender of licence A licence holder may at any time surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. 140 Effect of expiry or surrender of firearms licence On the expiry or surrender of a firearms licence, the licence holder— a ceases to be licensed to possess any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition under the licence or any endorsement on the licence (but see section 162 ); and b must deliver all arms items , and ammunition , and restricted ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If the holder of a firearms licence also holds a business licence, the expiry or surrender of their firearms licence immediately revokes their business licence. 141 Effect of expiry or surrender of business licence On the expiry or surrender of a business licence, the licensed business authorised under that licence to carry on any business activity ceases to be so authorised, and— a the business may not carry on any business activity (but see section 163 ); and b no employee of the business may carry on, or assist with the carrying on of, any business activity; and c the person whose business licence has expired or been surrendered must immediately surrender to the chief executive all records that are required by section 97 to be kept that have not been entered in the registry; and d the person whose business licence has expired or been surrendered must deliver all arms items and ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If a person whose business licence has expired or been surrendered fails to comply with the requirement in subsection (1)(d) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items and ammunition in the possession or under the control of the person. 142 Effect of expiry or surrender of museum licence On the expiry or surrender of a museum licence, the licence holder ceases to be licensed to possess, display, or store at the museum specified in their licence (the museum ) any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition. If a current museum licence is not held by any other senior manager or curator of the museum, the museum is not a licensed museum and— a the museum may not possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition (but see section 163A ); and b no museum worker may, during the performance of their duties , possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition; and c the person whose museum licence has expired or been surrendered must— i surrender to the chief executive all records required by section 109 to be kept that have not been entered in the registry; and ii deliver all arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in the possession of the museum to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If the person whose museum licence has expired or been surrendered fails to comply with the requirement in subsection (2)(c)(ii) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in the possession of the museum. 143 Effect of expiry or surrender of museum worker licence On the expiry or surrender of a museum worker’s licence, the museum worker ceases to be licensed to possess, display, or store at the museum specified in their licence any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition. 144 Effect of expiry or surrender of visitor licence On the expiry or surrender of a visitor licence, the licence holder— a ceases to be licensed to possess any arms items or ammunition under the licence or any endorsement on the licence (but see section 164 ); and b must deliver all arms items and ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. 145 When licence may be suspended This section applies to the following licences: a a firearms licence: b a business licence: c a museum licence: d a museum worker licence. The chief executive may, by written notice to a licence holder, suspend the holder’s licence if satisfied that 1 or more of the following apply: a the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to be in possession of any standard firearm or airgun, which may include s a case where— i the holder has failed to comply with any conditions imposed on their licence; or ii the holder has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 181 ; or iii the holder has failed to pay within time an infringement fee for an infringement offence; or iv the chief executive is satisfied that the holder is suffering from a form of mental illness or disorder; or v the licence has been seized under section 18 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 : b the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold the licence ( see sections 69, 83, 100, and 123 ): c access to any standard firearm or airgun in the possession of the licence holder is reasonably likely to be obtained by— i a person whose application for a firearms licence has been refused; or ii a person whose firearms licence has been revoked; or iii a person who, in the chief executive’s opinion, is not a fit and proper person to be in possession of a firearm, an airgun, or ammunition , or restricted ammunition ; or iv a person, other than the licence holder, whose firearms licence has been suspended. The suspension of a licence continues until notice of the decision as to whether to revoke the licence is given to the licence holder but, if notice is not given within the period specified in subsection (3) , the suspension ends with the close of that period. The period referred to in subsection (2) is— a 90 days if the licence is suspended under any provision of subsection (1) other than subsection (1)(a)(iv) : b 12 months if the licence is suspended under subsection (1)(a)(iv) . A notice of suspension of a licence must— a specify the date on which the suspension begins; and b specify the licence that the notice applies to; and c state that, if the person holds both a firearms licence and a business licence, the suspension of their firearms licence also suspends their business licence; and d specify the ground on which the notice is given; and e specify that the suspension is to enable the chief executive to consider revoking the licence on the specified ground; and f state that the licence holder may, at any time before a day stated in the notice, make oral or written submissions on whether the licence should be revoked on the specified ground; and g specify the period for which the suspension may continue (the suspension period ) ; and h state that the effect of the notice suspension is that during the suspension period the licence holder is treated as not holding the licence for the purposes of this Act until a final determination on revocation of the licence is made ( see sections 147 to 150 ); and i state that the licence holder may commit an offence if the holder carries on any activities that require the holder to be licensed under this Act; and j state that the licence holder may be required immediately, or before a date specified by the chief executive, to surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee; and k state that the licence holder may be required immediately, or before a date specified by the chief executive, to deliver all arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition they possess to an arms officer or a Police employee. The day stated under subsection (4)(f) must not be sooner than, in the opinion of the chief executive, is reasonable to enable the licence holder to prepare and make submissions. 146 When licence must be suspended The chief executive must, by written notice to the holder of a firearms licence, business licence, museum licence, or museum worker licence, suspend the holder’s licence if the chief executive is notified by the Police that the licence holder is charged with an offence specified in section 68(a) . The suspension of a licence under subsection (1) continues until the charge against the licence holder is withdrawn, dismissed, or stayed. A notice of suspension given under subsection (1) must— a specify the date on which the suspension begins; and b specify the licence that the notice applies to; and c state that, if the person holds both a firearms licence and a business licence, both licences are suspended; and d specify the ground on which the notice is given; and e specify the criteria that must be satisfied before the suspension can end; and f state that the effect of the notice is that, during the suspension, the licence holder is treated as not holding the licence for the purposes of this Act; and g state that the licence holder may commit an offence if the holder carries on any activities that require the holder to be licensed under this Act; and h state that the licence holder may be required immediately, or before a date specified by the chief executive, to surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee; and i state that the licence holder may be required immediately, or before a date specified by the chief executive, to deliver all arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in their possession to an arms officer or a Police employee. See section 151 , which provides for the immediate revocation of a firearms licence if the licence holder is convicted of an offence specified in section 68(a) . 146A Suspension of firearms licence when arms items seized under Search and Surveillance Act 2012 This section applies when, outside business hours, a constable seizes from a firearms licence holder under the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 1 or more arms items. The constable may, at the same time as seizing the 1 or more arms items, suspend the licence holder’s firearms licence. The suspension of a licence under subsection (2) continues until the earlier of the following: a the suspension is replaced by a further suspension of the licence holder’s licence under section 145 or 146 : b 5 pm on the next working day. In this section, business hours means the hours between 9 am and 5 pm on a working day. 147 Effect of suspension of firearms licence During the period for which a firearms licence is suspended, this Act applies as if the firearms licence holder were not licensed to possess any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition under the licence or any endorsement on the licence. When a firearms licence is suspended, or during the period that for which a firearms licence is suspended, the licence holder must, on demand,— a immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee; and b deliver all arms items , and ammunition , and restricted ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee. If a firearms licence holder fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (2)(b) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition in the possession or under the control , of the licence holder. If a person’s firearms licence is suspended and the person holds a business licence,— a the person’s business licence is suspended while their firearms licence remains suspended; and b section 148 applies. 148 Effect of suspension of business licence During the period for which a business licence is suspended, the licensed business authorised under that licence to carry on any business activity ceases to be so authorised, and— a the licensed business may not carry on any business activity; and b an employee of the licensed business may not carry on, or assist with the carrying on of, any business activity; and c the business licence holder must, on demand,— i immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee; and ii deliver all arms items and ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee. If a business licence holder fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (1)(c)(ii) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items and ammunition in the possession or under the control of the licence holder. 149 Effect of suspension of museum licence During the period for which a museum licence is suspended,— a this Act applies as if the licence holder were not licensed to possess, display, or store in the museum specified in their licence (the museum ) any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition; and b the licence holder must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If a current museum licence is not held by any other senior manager or curator of the museum then, during the period of suspension,— a the museum may not possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition; and b no museum worker in the museum may, during the performance of their duties, possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition; and c the licence holder whose licence has been suspended must deliver all arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in the possession of the museum to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. 150 Effect of suspension of museum worker licence During the period for which a museum worker licence is suspended,— a this Act applies as if the licence holder were not licensed to possess, display, or store in the museum specified in their licence any arms items , ammunition, or restricted ammunition ; and b the licence holder must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. 151 Revocation of firearms licence A firearms licence is immediately revoked if the licence holder becomes disqualified under section 68 from holding a firearms licence. A firearms licence may be revoked by the chief executive if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence. If a firearms licence is revoked under subsection (2) , the chief executive must inform the licence holder of the right to apply under section 79 for a review of the decision to revoke their licence. 152 Revocation of business licence A business licence is immediately revoked if— a the business licence holder has their firearms licence revoked; or b an individual who is the holder of the business licence ceases to carry on 1 or more of the business activities specified in their licence; or c a senior manager of a body corporate who is the holder of the business licence ceases to be a senior manager of the body corporate. A business licence may be revoked at any time by the chief executive if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold a business licence. 153 Revocation of museum licence A museum licence is immediately revoked if the licence holder— aa ceases to hold their position in the museum; or b has their firearms licence revoked. A museum licence may be revoked at any time by the chief executive if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold a museum licence. 154 Revocation of museum worker licence A museum worker licence is immediately revoked if— a the licence holder becomes disqualified under section 68 from holding a firearms licence; or b the licence holder ceases to work at the museum specified in their licence; or c the museum specified in their licence is no longer a licensed museum. A museum worker licence may be revoked by the chief executive if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold a firearms licence. 155 Revocation of visitor licence A visitor licence is immediately revoked if the licence holder becomes disqualified under section 122 from holding a visitor licence. A visitor licence may be revoked by the chief executive if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the visitor licence holder is not a fit and proper person to hold a visitor licence. 156 Revocation of suspended licence A licence that is suspended under section 145 or 146 may be revoked by the chief executive if the chief executive— a has considered any submissions made by the licence holder before the day stated in the notice of suspension on whether the licence should be revoked on the ground stated in that notice; and b is satisfied that the licence should be revoked on that ground. After deciding whether to revoke a suspended licence, the chief executive must promptly notify the licence holder of the decision. 157 Effect of revocation of firearms licence A person whose firearms licence is revoked must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. On the revocation of a firearms licence, the person whose licence has been revoked— a ceases to be licensed to possess any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition under the licence or any endorsement on the licence (but see section 162 ); and b must deliver all arms items , and ammunition , and restricted ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If a person whose firearms licence has been revoked fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (2)(b) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition in the possession or under the control of the person. 158 Effect of revocation of business licence When a business licence is revoked, the person whose business licence has been revoked must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. On the revocation of a business licence, the person whose licence has been revoked ceases to be authorised to carry on any business activity (but see section 163 ), and— a the business that was authorised under the licence to carry on 1 or more business activities ceases to be a licensed business; and b no employee of the business may carry on, or assist with the carrying on of, any business activity; and c the person whose licence has been revoked must immediately surrender to the chief executive all records that are required by section 97 to be kept that have not been entered in the registry; and d the person whose licence has been revoked must deliver all arms items and ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If the person whose business licence has been revoked fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (2)(d) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items or ammunition in the possession or under the control of the person. 159 Effect of revocation of museum licence When the museum licence of a senior manager or curator of a museum is revoked, the senior manager or curator must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. If a current museum licence is not held by any other senior manager or curator of the museum, the museum ceases to be a licensed museum, and— a the museum may not possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition (but see section 163A ); and b no museum worker may, during the performance of their duties, possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition; and c the person whose museum licence has been revoked must— i surrender to the chief executive all records required by section 109 to be kept that have not been entered in the registry; and ii deliver all arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in the possession of the museum to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If a senior manager or curator whose museum licence has been revoked fails to comply with the requirement in subsection (2)(c)(ii) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition in the possession of the museum. 160 Effect of revocation of museum worker licence A museum worker whose museum worker licence is revoked must immediately surrender their licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. On the surrender of a museum worker licence, the museum worker ceases to be licensed to possess, display, or store any arms items , ammunition, or restricted ammunition in the performance of their work duties. 161 Effect of revocation of visitor licence A person whose visitor licence is revoked must immediately surrender their visitor licence to an arms officer or a Police employee. On the revocation of a visitor licence, the person whose licence has been revoked— a ceases to be licensed to possess any arms items or ammunition under the licence or any endorsement on the licence (but see section 164 ); and b must deliver all arms items and ammunition in their possession or under their control to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. If the visitor whose licence has been revoked fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (2)(b) , an arms officer may request a constable to seize and take possession of any arms items or ammunition in the possession or under the control of the visitor. 162 Disposal of arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition after firearms licence expires or is surrendered or revoked Despite sections 140 and 157 , the holder of a firearms licence whose licence expires, or is surrendered or revoked , may, for a period of 3 months or any longer period that the chief executive allows, continue to possess any arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition only for the purpose of selling or otherwise disposing of the arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition to 1 or more persons approved by the chief executive. 163 Disposal of arms items and ammunition after business licence expires or is surrendered or revoked Despite sections 141 and 158 , if a business licence expires, or is surrendered or revoked, the person whose business licence has expired or been surrendered or revoked may, for a period of 3 months or any longer period that the chief executive allows, continue to possess any arms items and ammunition only for the purpose of selling or otherwise disposing of the arms items and ammunition to 1 or more persons approved by the chief executive. 163A Disposal of arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition if museum no longer licensed Despite sections 142 and 159 , if a museum is no longer licensed to possess, display, or store any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition (because the museum licence of a senior manager or curator of the museum has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, and no other senior manager or curator holds a current museum licence), the museum may, for a period of 3 months or any longer period that the chief executive allows, continue to possess any arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition only for the purpose of selling or otherwise disposing of the arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition to 1 or more persons approved by the chief executive. 164 Disposal of arms items and ammunition after visitor licence expires or is surrendered or revoked Despite sections 144 and 161 , the holder of a visitor licence whose licence expires, or is surrendered or revoked, may, for a period of 3 months or any longer period that the chief executive allows, continue to possess any arms items and ammunition only for the purpose of arranging for the arms items and ammunition to be sent out of New Zealand. 164A Disposal of arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition delivered to arms officer or Police employee Subsection (2) applies to any arms items, ammunition, and restricted ammunition that, following the expiry, surrender, or revocation of a licence,— a may not be possessed by a licence holder; and b is not sold or otherwise disposed of under section 162, 163, 163A, or 164 ; and c is delivered to an arms officer or a Police employee. The arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition may be detained for any period that the chief executive thinks fit , or may, in the discretion of the responsible Minister, become the property of the Crown, free and discharged from any right, title, or interest possessed by any other person. The Minister of Finance must pay out of a Crown Bank Account compensation in respect of any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition that is delivered to an arms officer or a Police employee under this section and that has become the property of the Crown. 165 Offence to fail to surrender licence when licence revoked A person whose firearms licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender their licence in accordance with section 157(1) . An individual or a senior manager of a body corporate whose business licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the individual or the body corporate, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender their licence in accordance with section 158(1) . A person whose museum licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender their licence in accordance with section 159(1) . A person whose museum worker licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender their licence in accordance with section 160(1) . A person whose visitor licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender their licence in accordance with section 161(1) . 166 Offence to fail to surrender records when business or museum licence revoked A person whose business licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender any records to the chief executive in accordance with section 158(2)(c) . A person whose museum licence is revoked commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to surrender any records to the chief executive in accordance with section 159(2)(c)(i) . 167 Offence to fail to deliver arms items , and ammunition , or restricted ammunition following expiry, surrender, suspension, or revocation of firearms licence or visitor licence A person whose firearms licence has expired, or has been surrendered, suspended, or revoked, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months 2 years , or to a fine not exceeding $10,000 $20,000 , if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to deliver any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition in accordance with section 140(1)(b), 147(2)(b), or 157(2)(b) . A person whose visitor licence expires has expired , or has been surrendered or revoked, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months 2 years , or to a fine not exceeding $10,000 $20,000 , if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to deliver any arms items or ammunition in accordance with section 144(b) or 161(2)(b) . 168 Offence to carry on business activities after expiry, surrender, or revocation of business licence If the business licence of an individual has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, the individual may not— a carry on any business activity; or b have any business interest in any arms items or ammunition . If the business licence of a senior manager of a body corporate has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, the body corporate may not carry on any business activity. However,— a nothing in subsection (1) applies to an individual who— i sells or otherwise disposes of any of the kinds of items specified in section 163 in accordance with that section; or ii after the expiry, surrender, or revocation of their business licence is, at any subsequent time, issued with another business licence to carry on 1 or more business activities; and b nothing in subsection (2) applies to a body corporate— i that sells or otherwise disposes of any of the kinds of items specified in section 163 in accordance with that section; or ii if, after the expiry, surrender, or revocation of the senior manager’s licence, the senior manager is, at any subsequent time, issued with another business licence that authorises the body corporate to carry on 1 or more business activities; or iii if another senior manager of the body corporate is issued with a business licence that authorises the body corporate to carry on 1 or more business activities. An individual whose business licence has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the individual, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . A senior manager of a body corporate whose business licence has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the body corporate, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (2) . 169 Offence for museum licence holder to possess, display, or store arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition following after expiry, surrender, or revocation of museum licence A senior manager or curator of a museum whose museum licence has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, may not possess, display, or store in the museum any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition. A museum licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the licence holder, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with contravenes subsection (1) . 170 Offence for museum worker to possess, display, or store arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition following expiry, surrender, or revocation of licence A museum worker in a museum whose museum worker licence has expired, or has been surrendered or revoked, and who does not hold a firearms licence may not possess, display, or store in the museum any arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition. A museum worker commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $40,000, if the museum worker, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with contravenes subsection (1) . 171 Application to be approved ammunition seller A person who does not hold a business licence may apply to be an approved ammunition seller if the person— a intends to be responsible for the day-to-day management of a business that sells or supplies ammunition; and b holds a firearms licence. An application for approval must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 172 Chief executive may grant approval The chief executive may grant an application for approval made under section 171 if the chief executive is satisfied that the applicant— a holds a firearms licence; and b meets the prescribed requirements for approval. The approval takes effect from the date of the approval or any later date specified in the approval. The chief executive must not decline an application for approval without first giving the applicant— a a copy of any information on which the chief executive relies in proposing to decline the application; and b a reasonable opportunity to make written submissions to the chief executive in relation to that information. 173 Disclosure of certain matters to applicant not required Nothing in section 172(3)(a) requires the chief executive to disclose any information to an applicant if the disclosure would be likely to— a endanger the safety of any person; or b prejudice the maintenance of the law; or c prejudice the security or defence of New Zealand or the international relations of the Government of New Zealand; or d prejudice the entrusting of information to the Arms Regulator, the Police, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, or the Government Communications Security Bureau on a basis of confidence by— i the government Government of any other country or an agency of the government Government of any other country; or ii any international organisation. 174 Approval granted for sale and supply from 1 place of business An approval is granted under section 172 for the sale and supply of ammunition from 1 place of business only. 175 Approval not transferable An approval is personal to the person to whom it is granted and may not be transferred to any other person. 176 Duration of approval An approval comes into force on the date specified in the approval and, unless sooner revoked, is granted to a person for the duration of their current firearms licence. 177 Conditions of approval An approval granted under section 172 is subject to the condition that the ammunition seller has the appropriate facilities to comply with all prescribed requirements relating to the secure storage of ammunition in their possession. An approval may be granted subject to any other conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate. 178 Breach of conditions to which approval is subject This section applies to an approved ammunition seller who— a breaches the condition specified in section 177(1) ; or b breaches any other condition to which their licence is subject under section 177(2) . The approved ammunition seller may— a be issued with an improvement notice under section 181 ; or b be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 , if the breach is specified identified as an infringement offence; or c have their approval revoked under section 180 . 179 Approved ammunition seller to provide details of ammunition sales An approved ammunition seller must provide to the chief executive on demand the following details in respect of all ammunition sold or supplied in the course of their business: a the name of the person to whom the ammunition was sold or supplied (the purchaser ); and b the quantity and type of ammunition sold or supplied to the purchaser; and c the purchaser’s firearms licence number, or, if the ammunition was sold or supplied to the purchaser for use under the immediate supervision of another person who holds a firearms licence, the name and firearms licence number of that other person. However, subsection (1) does not apply to any details that are declared by regulations made under section 362 to be exempt from the requirement in that subsection. An approved ammunition seller commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the approved ammunition seller, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 180 Revocation of approval The chief executive may at any time, by notice in writing, revoke an approval given granted under section 172 — a at the request of the approved ammunition seller; or b if the firearms licence of the approved ammunition seller expires or is surrendered, suspended, or revoked; or c if the approved ammunition seller is failing or has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 181 ; or d if the chief executive is satisfied that the approved ammunition seller— i no longer meets all of the requirements for approval; or ii has failed to comply with any condition imposed on their approval. 181 Improvement notices This section applies if an arms officer reasonably believes that a person who holds a licence, or is an approved ammunition seller, has failed, is failing, or is likely to fail to comply with— a 1 or more applicable provisions of this Act or regulations; or b any conditions on a licence, approval, endorsement, or permit. The officer may issue an improvement notice that— a states the applicable provision or provisions, or condition or conditions, that the officer reasonably believes the person has failed, is failing, or is likely to fail to comply with; and b requires the person to remedy the failure or prevent a failure from occurring; and c states the date by which the person is required to remedy the failure or prevent a failure from occurring. An improvement notice must be in writing. The officer may extend the time within which the person is required to remedy the failure or prevent a failure from occurring. A person issued with an improvement notice must comply with the notice within the time specified in the notice (or within any extended time allowed by the officer). Failure to comply with an improvement notice may result in the suspension of a licence ( see section 145 ) or the revocation of an ammunition seller’s approval ( see section 180(c) ). 182 Applications for endorsements: general An application for an endorsement may be made by a person who is— a described in section 183 and applying for an endorsement permitting them to possess, in a particular capacity, 1 or more specified arms items; or b described in section 184 and applying for an endorsement permitting them, or a licensed business that they are a senior manager of, to possess 1 or more specified arms items. An application for an endorsement on a firearms licence or business licence permitting the licence holder to possess a restricted firearm or restricted magazine may be made by a person described in section 183 or 184 only if the person is of or over the age of 18 years. In subsection (1) , specified arms item means— a a pistol: c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. An application for an endorsement must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). 183 Applications for endorsements: applicants for or holders of firearms licence, museum licence, or visitor licence This section applies to a person who is— a applying for a firearms licence, museum licence, or visitor licence; or b the holder of a firearms licence, museum licence, or visitor licence. The person, if a member of a pistol shooting club, may apply for an endorsement on their firearms licence permitting them to possess a pistol in their capacity as a member of a pistol shooting club. The person, if a visitor licence holder and wanting to use a pistol for competitive shooting on a pistol shooting range in New Zealand, may apply for an endorsement on their licence permitting them to possess a pistol in their capacity as a visitor to New Zealand. The person, if a bona fide collector of firearms, may apply for an endorsement on their firearms licence permitting them to possess 1 or more of the following arms items in their capacity as a bona fide collector of firearms: a a pistol (including a semi-automatic pistol): c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. The person, if a person to whom 1 or more of the following arms items have special significance as an heirloom or a memento, may apply for an endorsement on their firearms licence permitting possession of the item or items in their capacity as a person to whom the item or items have special significance as an heirloom or a memento: a a pistol (including a semi-automatic pistol): c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. The person, if a museum licence holder, may apply for an endorsement on their licence authorising them to possess, display, or store 1 or more of the following arms items: a a pistol (including a semi-automatic pistol): c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. The person, if an approved employee or approved member of a specified body, may apply for an endorsement on their firearms licence permitting them to possess 1 or more of the following arms items in their capacity as an approved employee or approved member of a specified body: a a pistol (including a semi-automatic pistol): c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. The person, if an animal and biosecurity controller, may apply for an endorsement on their firearms licence permitting them to possess either or both of the following arms items in their capacity as an animal and biosecurity controller: a a restricted firearm: b a restricted magazine. In subsection (7) ,— approved , in relation to an employee or a member of a specified body, means an employee or a member of a specified body who has been approved in writing for the purposes of subsection (7) by the chief executive of the specified body specified body means— a a broadcaster within the meaning of the Broadcasting Act 1989; or b a bona fide theatre company or society, cinematic or television film production company, or video recording production company. 184 Applications for endorsements: applicants for or holders of business licence This section applies to a person who is— a applying for a business licence; or b a business licence holder. The person may apply for an endorsement on their business licence permitting the possession of 1 or more specified arms items by— a the person in their capacity as a licensed business who is authorised to carry on a business activity in relation to the specified arms items; or b the licensed business that the person is a senior manager of and that is authorised to carry on a business activity in relation to specified arms items. In this section, specified arms item means— a a pistol: b a large-capacity pistol magazine: c a restricted weapon: d a restricted firearm: e a restricted magazine. 185 Power to make endorsements On receiving an application under section 183 or 184 , the chief executive may make the endorsement sought on the applicant’s licence if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the applicant is a fit and proper person to be in possession of the arms item to which the application relates; and b it is appropriate for the applicant, in their capacity stated in the application, to be in possession of that arms item. In the case of an application under section 183(5) , the chief executive must, in addition to being satisfied of the matter in subsection (1)(a) , be satisfied that in all the circumstances it is reasonable to make the endorsement. In the case of an application under section 183(7) , the chief executive must, in addition to being satisfied of the matters in subsection (1) , be satisfied that possession by the employee or member of the specified body of the arms item or arms items specified in the application is necessary for the purpose of— a making a broadcast; or b producing or staging a play; or c filming a cinematic production or television film or making a video recording. In the case of an application made by a person described in section 183(8) , the chief executive must, in addition to being satisfied of the matters in subsection (1) , be satisfied that— a the applicant has a genuine need to possess the restricted firearm or restricted magazine; and b the restricted firearm or restricted magazine will be used by the applicant solely for the purpose of controlling animals; and c the purpose in paragraph (b) cannot effectively be achieved by the use of a standard firearm or standard magazine. An endorsement made on a licence must specify the capacity in respect of which the licence holder is authorised to possess the arms item. 186 Conditions of endorsement An endorsement is granted subject to the conditions that any person who is in possession of an arms item by virtue of the endorsement must— a produce the arms item to an arms officer or a constable on demand; and b permit an arms officer to inspect the arms item and the place where it is kept , and, for that purpose, to enter at all reasonable times upon the premises where the place is situated. It is the duty of an arms officer exercising any power conferred by subsection (1)(b) — a to identify themselves to the person in possession of the arms item and provide evidence that they are an arms officer ; and b to tell the person in possession of the arms item that the power is being exercised under subsection (1)(b) ; and . c if the arms officer is not in uniform, to produce on initial entry, and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are an arms officer. 187 Further conditions of endorsement in respect of pistols and restricted weapons pistol or restricted weapon An endorsement on a licence in respect of a pistol or restricted weapon made under section 185 is subject to the following conditions: a the licence holder observes, in respect of every pistol, restricted weapon, or part of a restricted weapon in their possession, all security precautions required by regulations; and b the licence holder ensures that every restricted weapon in their possession is both rendered inoperable by the removal of a vital part and maintained, by reason of the removal of a vital part, in an inoperable condition. b the licence holder must ensure that a restricted weapon in their possession or under their control is— i rendered inoperable by removal of a vital part; and ii maintained, by reason of the removal of the vital part, in an inoperable condition. The chief executive may impose any other conditions with regard to the use or custody of the pistol or restricted weapon that the chief executive considers appropriate. 188 Further conditions of endorsement in respect of restricted firearm or restricted magazine An endorsement on a licence in respect of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine made under section 185 is subject to the following conditions: a the licence holder may only possess and use the restricted firearm or restricted magazine only in the capacity specified in their endorsement; and b the licence holder must observe in respect of every restricted firearm or restricted magazine in their possession all security precautions required by regulations. The chief executive may impose any other conditions with regard to the use or custody of the restricted firearm or restricted magazine that the chief executive considers appropriate. An animal and biosecurity controller whose firearms licence bears an endorsement in respect of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine must advise the chief executive when there is any change in circumstances affecting their entitlement to an endorsement. 189 Additional condition of endorsement in respect of restricted firearm in possession of collectors, museum licence holders, and employees collector, museum licence holder, or employee of broadcaster or theatrical company, etc This section applies to a person whose licence bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm in their capacity described in section 183(4), (5), (6), or (7) . The person— a must not use live ammunition in a restricted firearm in their possession or under their control; and b must ensure that a restricted firearm in their possession or under their control is— i rendered inoperable by removal of a vital part; and ii maintained, by reason of the removal of the vital part, in an inoperable condition; and c ensure that the removed vital part is kept at a separate address from the restricted firearm. In subsection (2)(c) , separate address means— a the address of another person who is— i a licence holder (whether or not their licence bears an endorsement permitting possession of a restricted firearm); and ii approved by the chief executive; or b the address of a facility that the chief executive has approved as providing appropriate storage for the vital part. 190 Duration of endorsement An endorsement on a licence continues in force for so long as the licence continues in force. However, an endorsement on a firearms licence held by an animal and biosecurity controller continues in force until the earlier of the following dates: a the date that is 5 years after the date on which the endorsement was made: b the date on which the licence— i is surrendered or revoked; or ii expires. 191 Revocation of endorsement in respect of pistol or restricted weapon The chief executive may, by written notice, revoke an endorsement on a licence in respect of a pistol or restricted weapon if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder— a would not, on an application made under section 183 or 184 , be entitled to have the endorsement on their licence; or b has failed to observe any conditions of the endorsement. However, an endorsement on a licence in respect of a pistol may not be revoked under subsection (1) if— a the firearms licence holder has owned that pistol since before 16 May 1969 and, immediately before that date, was registered under section 9 of the Arms Act 1958 as the owner of that pistol; and b the pistol, although less than 762 millimetres in length, has not been reduced below that length since 15 May 1969 and is not designed or adapted to be held and fired with 1 hand. When an endorsement on a licence is revoked under this section, the licence holder— a ceases to be entitled to possess a pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon; and b must— i surrender their licence to the chief executive on demand for the cancellation of the endorsement; and ii deliver the pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon to an arms officer or a Police employee on demand. 192 Revocation of endorsement in respect of restricted firearm or restricted magazine The chief executive may, by written notice, revoke an endorsement on a licence in respect of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine if, in the chief executive’s opinion, the licence holder— a would not, on an application made under section 183 or 184 , be entitled to have the endorsement on their licence; or b has failed to observe any conditions of the endorsement. When an endorsement on a licence is revoked under this section, the licence holder— a must surrender their licence to the chief executive on demand for the cancellation of the endorsement; and b ceases to be entitled to possess a restricted firearm or restricted magazine, as the case may require, whether or not they surrender their licence under paragraph (a) . 193 Issue of permit to import firearms, etc An application for the issue of a permit to import must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). After receiving an application, the chief executive may require the applicant to produce to the chief executive, for examination and testing, samples of any item of the kind referred to in the application that the chief executive considers necessary. The chief executive, if satisfied of the matters in subsection (4) , must grant an application for the issue of a permit to import any of the following items: a a standard firearm: b an exempt standard firearm: ba an exempt pistol: c a permanently deactivated firearm that was formerly a standard firearm: d a standard magazine: e any part of a standard firearm: f ammunition. The matters referred to in subsection (3) are that— a the applicant is lawfully able to possess the item; and b one of the following applies: i the applicant has complied with any previous requirement to provide a sample of the item for examination and testing and the sample was approved: ii a sample of the item is not required to be produced for examination and testing: iii if the application is made for the issue of a permit to import a sample of an item, the applicant will— A import no more than 1 sample; and B comply with the requirements in section 197 ; and . c if the application is in respect of a standard firearm that is a permanently deactivated firearm, the applicant has produced sufficient evidence of the firearm having been permanently deactivated. The chief executive, if satisfied of the matters in subsection (6) , may grant an application for the issue of a permit to import any of the following items: a a restricted firearm: b a permanently deactivated firearm that was formerly a pistol or restricted firearm: c a restricted magazine: d a large-capacity pistol magazine: e a restricted part: f a pistol: g a restricted airgun: h a blank-firing gun: i an exempt blank-firing gun: j a restricted weapon: k any part of a pistol: l any part of a restricted weapon: m any part of a blank-firing gun: n any restricted ammunition. The chief executive may issue a permit to import under subsection (5) in respect of an item only if— a the chief executive is satisfied that there is a special reason why the item should be allowed in into New Zealand; and b in the case of an application for the issue of a permit to import an item described in subsection (5)(a), (c), (d), or (f) , (j), or (l) , the application is made by a person who is the holder of a licence that bears an endorsement permitting the licence holder to possess the item; and ba in the case of an application for the issue of a permit to import an item described in subsection (5)(b) , the application is made by a person who— i is the holder of a licence that bears an endorsement permitting the licence holder to possess the permanently deactivated firearm; and ii has produced sufficient evidence of the firearm having been permanently deactivated; and c in the case of an application for the issue of a permit to import an item described in subsection (5)(e) , the application is made by a person who may possess a restricted part ( see section 36 ); and d in the case of an application for the issue of a permit in respect of an item described in subsection (5)(n) , the application is made by a person who may possess the restricted ammunition ( see section 37 ). If an application for the issue of a permit to import is made in respect of an item described in subsection (5)(e) in relation to a restricted part that may be used by a licence holder on or with a standard firearm, the chief executive— a must be satisfied that the part will only be used by the licence holder with or on a standard firearm; and b may impose conditions on the permit that enable the chief executive to verify the use of the part. 194 Issue of permit to import pistol carbine conversion kits After receiving an application for the issue of a permit to import a pistol carbine conversion kit, the chief executive may require the applicant to produce to the chief executive, for examination and testing, samples of any pistol carbine conversion kit of the kind referred to in the application that the chief executive considers necessary. The chief executive may grant an application for the issue of a permit to import a pistol carbine conversion kit only if— a the chief executive is satisfied that— i there are special reasons why the pistol carbine conversion kit should be allowed into New Zealand; and ii the pistol carbine conversion kit specifically enables a pistol that has an overall length of no more than 400 millimetres and is capable of firing specified ammunition only at a muzzle velocity of 1,600 feet per second or less to be fired from the shoulder; and iii the pistol carbine conversion kit does not modify the pistol in any way other than as specified in subparagraph (ii) ; and b the application is made by the holder of a licence— i whose licence bears an endorsement permitting the licence holder to possess a pistol; and ii who has been issued with— A a permit to import a pistol; or B a permit to possess a pistol. However, if an application is made by an applicant in the applicant’s capacity described in section 183(4), (5), (6), or (7) , the chief executive may grant the application without being satisfied of the matters in subsection (2)(a)(ii) and (iii) . If the applicant has appointed a licensed business as their agent to import a pistol carbine conversion kit, the holder of the business licence that authorises the licensed business to sell pistol carbine conversion kits must have an endorsement on their licence permitting them to possess a pistol. 195 Issue of permit to import air pistol carbine conversion kits After receiving an application for the issue of a permit to import an air pistol carbine conversion kit, the chief executive may require the applicant to produce to the chief executive, for examination and testing, samples of any air pistol carbine conversion kit of the kind referred to in the application that the chief executive considers necessary. The chief executive may grant an application for the issue of a permit to import an air pistol carbine conversion kit only if the chief executive is satisfied that the application is made by an applicant who intends to personally use the kit as a member of an airsoft or a paintball club that is affiliated with a national airsoft or paintball organisation. 196 Permit to import issued for items to be brought into or sent to New Zealand in single consignment or multiple consignments A permit to import may be issued only in relation to items that are to be brought into, or sent to, New Zealand— a in a single consignment at the same time; or b in multiple consignments, with a period of— i not more than 12 months between the arrival of the first and last consignments, if the permit to import is issued to a business licence holder; or ii not more than 30 days between the arrival of the first and last consignments, if the permit to import is issued to the holder of a firearms licence, museum licence, or visitor licence. If, after the issue of a permit to import referred to in subsection (1) , any item to which the permit relates is not included in a consignment referred to in subsection (1) , the permit ceases to apply in relation to that item. 197 Production of samples An applicant who is required under section 193(2), 194(1), or 195(1) to produce a sample to the chief executive for examination and testing must produce the sample as soon as practicable. Before producing a sample, an applicant must ensure that it has not been modified in any way. The Crown is not liable to pay compensation in respect of any damage caused to a sample resulting from the examination and testing of the sample. If, following examination and testing, the sample is not approved, the applicant who produced it must, within 12 months after being informed in writing by the chief executive that the sample is not approved,— a export the sample from New Zealand; or b cause the sample to be exported from New Zealand. If the sample is not exported as required by subsection (4) , the sample must be disposed of or dealt with in the manner that the chief executive directs. 198 Export of specified items not corresponding with sample or otherwise approved for importation Subsection (2) applies if— a a specified item is brought into , or sent to New Zealand , under a permit to import; and b the specified item— i does not correspond with a sample produced to the chief executive, as required by the description of the specified item in the permit; or ii is not otherwise approved for importation into New Zealand. If this subsection applies, the person who brought the specified item into New Zealand, caused the specified item to be brought into New Zealand, or sent the specified item to New Zealand must, within 12 months after being informed in writing by the chief executive that the specified item does not correspond with the sample or is not otherwise approved for importation into New Zealand, export or cause to be exported from New Zealand— a the specified item; and b the sample. If a specified item or sample to which subsection (2) relates is not exported as required by that subsection, the specified item or sample must be disposed of or dealt with in the manner that the chief executive directs. In this section, specified item means— a any item listed in section 55(1) : b restricted ammunition. 199 Permit to import not transferable A permit to import is personal to the person to whom it is issued and may not be transferred to any other person. 200 Expiry of permit to import Unless sooner revoked under section 201 , a permit to import expires 12 months after the date on which it is issued. 201 Revocation and validity of permit to import A permit to import may be revoked at any time by the chief executive. A permit issued under section 193 or 194 is automatically revoked if— a the permit to import was issued to the holder of a business licence and that licence, or any endorsement on the licence required for the issue of the permit, is revoked or suspended or has expired or been surrendered; or b the permit to import was issued to the holder of another type of licence , and that licence, or any endorsement on the licence required for the issue of the permit, is revoked or suspended or has expired or been surrendered. Subsection (4) applies if— a a permit to import is issued under section 193 or 194 to a licensed business permitting the licensed business to import 1 or more items on behalf of a person ( A ); and b A, who is required to hold a licence, or a licence bearing an endorsement to possess an item being imported on their behalf,— i has their licence or endorsement revoked or suspended; or ii allows their licence or endorsement to expire; or iii surrenders their licence. If this subsection applies, the permit issued to the business licence holder is invalid to the extent that it permits the importation of the item on behalf of A in respect of which A required the licence or endorsement. 202 Notification of importation This section applies to a person who imports an item into New Zealand under a permit to import. A person to whom this section applies must, within 30 days after the date on which the item is imported, notify the chief executive of the matters specified in subsection (3) by— a delivering a notice in writing in hard copy form approved by the chief executive to the chief executive if the application for the permit to import the item was made in writing in hard copy form; or b lodging a notice electronically through an internet site if the application for the permit to import the item was made electronically through an internet site; or c providing the information in a manner or form approved by the chief executive for the purposes of the registry. The matters that must be notified in respect of the imported item are— a the full name of the applicant; and b the address and occupation of the applicant; and c the quantity of the item; and d the country of origin of the item; and da a description of the item, including any identification marking; and e the name of the manufacturer of the item; and f the place at which the item landed in New Zealand; and g the date of importation; and h the date on which and the place at which the permit to import was issued. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $1,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes this section. 203 Seizure of illegally imported items Subsection (2) applies if a constable or a Customs officer suspects on reasonable grounds that an item referred to in section 55(1) or 56 — a has been brought into New Zealand without a permit to import; or b has been brought into the harbours or other territorial waters of New Zealand and is intended to be brought into New Zealand without a permit to import. If this subsection applies, the constable or the Customs officer may— a seize and detain the item; and b use any reasonable necessary force to seize the item. If an item is seized and detained under subsection (2) , sections 337 and 338 apply, with all necessary modifications, in respect of that item. 204 Permits to possess An application for the issue of a permit to possess must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). The chief executive may issue a permit to possess a specific pistol, pistol carbine conversion kit, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, or restricted weapon. Unless sooner revoked, a permit to possess remains in force for the period specified in the permit not exceeding 1 month. A permit to possess may be revoked at any time by the chief executive. 205 Issue of permit to possess pistol or restricted weapon A permit to possess a pistol or restricted weapon may be issued if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the applicant holds a licence that bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a pistol or restricted weapon; and b it is appropriate for the applicant to possess the pistol or restricted weapon. 206 Issue of permit to possess pistol carbine conversion kit A permit to possess a pistol carbine conversion kit may be issued if the chief executive is satisfied that the applicant— a is the holder of a licence that bears an endorsement permitting possession of a pistol; and b has been issued with— i a permit under section 193 to import a pistol; or ii a permit under section 205 to possess a pistol. The chief executive must also be satisfied that— a the pistol carbine conversion kit specifically enables a pistol that has an overall length of no more than 400 millimetres and is capable of firing specified ammunition at a muzzle velocity of 1,600 feet per second or less to be fired from the shoulder; and b the pistol carbine conversion kit does not modify the pistol in any way other than as specified in paragraph (a) . However, if an application is made by an applicant in the applicant’s capacity described in section 183(4), (5), (6), or (7) , the chief executive may grant the application without being satisfied of the matters in subsection (2) . 207 Issue of permit to possess restricted firearm or restricted magazine A permit to possess a restricted firearm or restricted magazine may be issued if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the applicant holds a licence that bears an endorsement permitting the possession of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine; and b it is appropriate for the applicant to possess the restricted firearm or restricted magazine. 208 Interpretation In this Part,— application for approval means an application made under section 211 to have a pistol shooting club approved application for certification means an application made under section 226 to have a pistol shooting range certified non-pistol shooting club means a shooting club that is not a pistol shooting club non-pistol shooting range means a shooting range at which pistols cannot be used pistol shooting club means a shooting club that facilitates participation in shooting activities that include the use of pistols pistol shooting range means a shooting range at which pistols can be used range operator means the person who is operating, or proposing to operate, a shooting range range standing orders , in relation to a shooting range, means a document that— a describes the design of the shooting range; and b sets out the operational detail, and conditions of use, of the shooting range shooting activities — a means activities that are carried out using a standard firearm, a pistol, or an airgun for the purpose of shooting at inanimate targets (whether fixed or moving); but b excludes— i paintball shooting; and ii airsoft shooting shooting club means a voluntary association of people who— a act in accordance with a set of written rules; and b participate in, or intend to participate in, shooting activities on a regular basis shooting event , in relation to a temporary non-pistol shooting range, means an event that— a includes shooting activities; and b lasts for not more than 4 days, with the first day being the day the event commences for participants (who are not event organisers or staff) shooting range — a means a facility (whether indoor or outdoor), or a designated area of land, used by a shooting club or members of the public for the primary purpose of carrying out shooting activities; and b includes any defence area (as that term is defined in section 2(1) of the Defence Act 1990 ) used by a shooting club temporary non-pistol shooting range means a non-pistol shooting range that is set up temporarily for no more than 2 shooting events in any calendar year. 209 Pistol shooting club must have certificate of approval A pistol shooting club must hold a certificate of approval issued by the chief executive. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, establishes or operates a pistol shooting club without the club holding a certificate of approval. 210 Pistol shooting club must be incorporated society A pistol shooting club may not hold a certificate of approval issued under section 214 unless the club is registered as an incorporated society under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 . 211 Application for certificate of approval in respect of pistol shooting club An application for a certificate of approval in respect of a pistol shooting club may be made only by a person who is authorised by the pistol shooting club to make the application on its behalf. An application for approval must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 212 Chief executive may make inquiries and request further information On receipt of an application for approval, the chief executive— a may make whatever inquiries the chief executive considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted; and b may request the applicant to provide any further information or documents that the chief executive considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted. 213 Decision on application for certificate of approval The chief executive may grant an application for approval if the chief executive is satisfied that the pistol shooting club— a will be using a pistol shooting range for its shooting activities; and b has rules relating to the safe operation of standard firearms and pistols and promotes the safe possession and use of firearms; and c is appropriately administered; and d is able to safely manage its shooting activities; and e has proper storage for any firearm or ammunition held at any of the club’s premises or at a pistol shooting range used by the club. 214 Issue of certificate of approval If the chief executive grants an application for approval, the chief executive must issue to the pistol shooting club a certificate of approval. A certificate of approval may be granted subject to any conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate. 215 Duration of certificate of approval A certificate of approval granted to a pistol shooting club continues until— a surrendered by the pistol shooting club; or b cancelled by the chief executive. 216 Cancellation of certificate of approval The chief executive must cancel a pistol shooting club’s certificate of approval if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the pistol shooting club is not using a pistol shooting range for its shooting activities; or b the pistol shooting club is no longer carrying on its operations; or c the pistol shooting club no longer meets the requirements in section 210 or 213 ; or d the pistol shooting club has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 243 . The chief executive may cancel a pistol shooting club’s certificate of approval if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the pistol shooting club has failed to comply with any conditions to which its certificate of approval is subject; or b the pistol shooting club has failed to report any serious firearms-related safety incident; or c any activity of the pistol shooting club has raised any reasonable concern about the safety of its members or the public. 217 Annual reports A pistol shooting club must, not later than 2 months after the close of each financial year, provide to the chief executive an annual report on its operations for that year. An annual report must include the prescribed particulars. In this section, financial year means a period of 12 months commencing on 1 July in each year and ending on 30 June in the following year. 218 Non-pistol shooting club must be enrolled A non-pistol shooting club must be enrolled. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, establishes or operates a non-pistol shooting club without the club being enrolled. 219 Non-pistol shooting club must be incorporated society in certain circumstances If standard firearms are sold to persons on behalf of a non-pistol shooting club, the club may not be enrolled under section 222 unless it is registered as an incorporated society under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 . If ammunition is sold to persons on behalf of a non-pistol shooting club, the club may not be enrolled under section 222 unless it is registered as an incorporated society under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 . However, subsection (2) does not apply if ammunition is sold to persons on behalf of the non-pistol shooting club for use on the day of sale at a club shooting activity and the ammunition is— a used by the persons at the club shooting activity; or b stored on the premises of the club after the club shooting activity. 220 Application for enrolment in respect of non-pistol shooting club An application for enrolment in respect of a non-pistol shooting club must be made,— a if the non-pistol shooting club is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or b if the non-pistol shooting club is not a body corporate, by the club’s representative who is authorised by the club to make the application. An application for enrolment must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 221 Chief executive may make inquiries and request further information On receipt of an application for enrolment from a non-pistol shooting club, the chief executive may, for the purpose of determining whether the information provided is complete and correct,— a make whatever inquiries the chief executive considers necessary; and b request the applicant to provide any further information or documents. 222 Confirmation of enrolment Enrolment of non-pistol shooting clubs If the chief executive is satisfied that an application is made in accordance with section 220 and that the all information provided is complete and correct, the chief executive must— a place enrol the non-pistol shooting club by placing the name and details of the non-pistol shooting club on the roll of non-pistol shooting clubs; and b notify the non-pistol shooting club that it is enrolled and of the date of its enrolment. 223 Chief executive to keep roll of non-pistol shooting clubs The chief executive must establish and maintain a roll of non-pistol shooting clubs. 224 Cancellation of enrolment The chief executive must cancel a non-pistol shooting club’s enrolment if— a the non-pistol shooting club requests the cancellation of its enrolment; or b the chief executive is satisfied that the club is no longer carrying on its operations. 225 Pistol shooting ranges must be certified A person may not operate a pistol shooting range unless the shooting range is a certified pistol shooting range. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 226 Application for certification of pistol shooting range An application for certification of a pistol shooting range may be made,— a if the person who is proposing to operate the range is an individual, by that individual; or b if the person who is proposing to operate the range is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or c if the person who is proposing to operate the range is not an individual or a body corporate, by the person’s representative who is authorised by the person to make the application. An application for certification must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and d be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 227 Chief executive may make inquiries and request further information On receipt of an application for certification, the chief executive may— a make whatever inquiries the chief executive considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted; and b request the applicant to provide any further information or documents that the chief executive considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted. 228 Decision on application to have pistol shooting range certified The chief executive may grant an application for certification if the chief executive is satisfied that the pistol shooting range meets all required safety standards published by the Arms Regulator. 229 Grant of certification If the chief executive grants an application for certification in respect of a pistol shooting range, the chief executive must issue a certificate to the applicant. 230 Certification granted subject to condition A certificate granted under section 229 is subject to the condition that, at all times while the pistol shooting range is in use, an officer is on duty who— a holds a firearms licence; and b is appropriately trained in pistol shooting range safety management. Certification granted under section 229 may be made subject to any other conditions that the chief executive considers appropriate, which may include conditions relating to— a maintenance of the shooting range: b public access to the shooting range: c restrictions on the types of standard firearms, pistols, and ammunition that may be used at the shooting range: d competitions that may be conducted at the shooting range. The operator of a certified pistol shooting range must request the chief executive to review the certification of the range if it is intended that the operation of the range will depart from the conditions imposed by or under this section. 231 Duration of certification A certificate issued in respect of a pistol shooting range remains in force for 5 years after the date on which it is issued unless the certificate is sooner surrendered or cancelled. 232 Cancellation of certification The chief executive may cancel certification in respect of a pistol shooting range if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the pistol shooting range is no longer being operated as a pistol shooting range; or b the pistol shooting range is not being operated with proper regard to individual or public safety; or ba the pistol shooting range is no longer meeting all required safety standards published by the Arms Regulator; or c the range operator is not complying with any conditions imposed under section 230 ; or d having regard to the matters specified in section 228 , it is no longer appropriate that the shooting range be certified; or e the range operator has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 243 . 233 Renewal of certification A certificate granted under section 229 may be renewed on 1 or more occasions. Sections 226 to 232 231 apply to an application for renewal of certification as if the application were an application for certification, unless subsection (4) applies. A renewed certificate is to be treated for all purposes as a new certification granted under section 229 . If the circumstances of the pistol shooting range have not changed significantly for 5 years, the applicant may initiate the renewal of the certification by using a form approved by the chief executive instead of applying under section 226 . 233A Extension of certification pending determination of renewal application This section applies if— a an application for the renewal of a certification is made before the expiry of the certification; and b the application is not determined before the expiry of the certification. The certification continues in force, unless sooner cancelled, until the date on which the applicant is notified of the determination of the application. A new certification granted on an application takes effect from the date on which the new certification is issued to the applicant. 234 Non-pistol shooting ranges that are not temporary non-pistol shooting ranges must be enrolled A person may not operate a non-pistol shooting range (that is not a temporary non-pistol shooting range) unless the shooting range is enrolled under section 238 . A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 235 Temporary non-pistol shooting ranges must be notified to chief executive The following persons may operate a temporary non-pistol shooting range: a a shooting club: b a member of a shooting club: c an operator of— i a pistol shooting range that is certified under section 229 ; or ii a non-pistol shooting range that is enrolled under section 239 238 . The operator of a temporary non-pistol shooting range must notify the chief executive of the temporary non-pistol shooting range. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (2) . 236 Application for enrolment of non-pistol shooting range An application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range must be made,— a if the person who is proposing to operate the range is an individual, by that individual; or b if the person who is proposing to operate the range is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or c if the person who is proposing to operate the range is not an individual or a body corporate, by the person’s representative who is authorised by the person to make the application. An application for enrolment must be made to the chief executive in the prescribed manner and must— a be in a form approved by the chief executive; and b include the prescribed details (if any); and c include a declaration declaring that the non-pistol shooting range has range standing orders that have been approved by the association the range is affiliated with or the chief executive; and d be supported by any prescribed information and documents that are prescribed ; and e be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any). 237 Chief executive may make inquiries and request further information On receipt of an application from an applicant for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range, the chief executive may, for the purpose of determining whether the information is complete and correct,— a make whatever inquiries the chief executive considers necessary; and b request the applicant to provide any further information or documents. 238 Decision on application to have non-pistol shooting range enrolled The chief executive must grant an application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range if the chief executive is satisfied that— a the application is made in accordance with section 236 ; and b all information provided in the application, and any information provided in response to a request under section 237(b) , is complete and correct. 239 Confirmation of enrolment If the chief executive grants an application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range, the chief executive must— a place the name and details of the non-pistol shooting range on the roll of non-pistol shooting ranges; and b notify the applicant that the non-pistol shooting range is enrolled and of the date of the enrolment. 238 Enrolment of non-pistol shooting ranges If the chief executive is satisfied that an application is made in accordance with section 236 and that all information provided is complete and correct, the chief executive must— a enrol the non-pistol shooting range by placing the name and details of the non-pistol shooting range on the roll of non-pistol shooting ranges; and b notify the non-pistol shooting range that it is enrolled and of the date of its enrolment. 240 Chief executive to keep roll of non-pistol shooting ranges The chief executive must establish and maintain a roll of non-pistol shooting ranges. 241 Cancellation of enrolment The chief executive may cancel a non-pistol shooting range’s enrolment if— a the range operator requests the cancellation of the enrolment of the range; or b the chief executive is satisfied that the range is no longer being operated as a non-pistol shooting range; or c the range is not being operated with proper regard to individual or public safety; or d the range operator has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 243 . 242 Inspections of shooting clubs and shooting ranges For the purpose of ensuring that a shooting club or shooting range is operated in accordance with this Act, an arms officer may— a enter and inspect— i any shooting range (including any shooting club that is part of the range); and ii any place where the shooting club stores standard firearms, pistols, or ammunition: b inspect, print, or copy documents that the person believes on reasonable grounds to be those of the shooting club or shooting range: c remove any hard copy documents that the person believes on reasonable grounds to be those of the shooting club or shooting range. Unless there is a change of circumstances that may affect its safety, an inspection of a shooting range under subsection (1) may only be undertaken,— a in respect of a pistol shooting range, when the chief executive is considering an application for— i certification; or ii renewal of its certification: b in respect of a non-pistol shooting range, when the chief executive is considering an application for enrolment, and then at intervals of not less than 5 years: c in respect of a pistol shooting range or a non-pistol shooting range at any other time with the agreement of the operator of the range. An arms officer must give at least 7 days’ notice of their intention to enter and inspect a venue of a shooting club or shooting range. The provisions of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 (apart from subpart 3 ) apply. 243 Improvement notices This section applies if an arms officer reasonably believes that— a a pistol shooting club has failed, is failing, or is likely to fail to comply with any conditions to which its certificate of approval is subject; or b a pistol shooting range has failed, is failing, or is likely to fail, to comply with the condition to which its certification is subject; or c a shooting club or shooting range has contravened, is contravening, or is likely to contravene a provision of this Act or any regulations. If this section applies, the officer may issue an improvement notice to the shooting club or the range operator requiring the shooting club or range operator, within a reasonable period of time specified in the notice, to— a remedy the non-compliance or contravention; or b prevent a likely non-compliance or contravention from occurring. 244 Temporary suspension of pistol shooting club’s operations for non-compliance with improvement notice An arms officer may, by notice in writing to a pistol shooting club, temporarily suspend the operations of the shooting club if the officer is satisfied that the shooting club has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 243 . A notice of temporary suspension must state— a the ground on which the notice is given; and b the date on which the suspension begins; and c that the suspension is to enable the Arms Regulator to consider cancelling the pistol shooting club’s certificate of approval; and d that the suspension lasts until notice of the decision as to whether to cancel the certificate of approval is given to the pistol shooting club, but, if the notice is not given within 90 days after the suspension takes effect, the suspension ends with the close of that 90-day period. 245 Temporary suspension of shooting range’s operations for non-compliance with improvement notice An arms officer may, by notice in writing to the range operator, temporarily suspend the operations of the shooting range if the officer is satisfied that the shooting range has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 243 . A notice of temporary suspension must state— a the ground on which the notice is given; and b the date on which the suspension begins. In the case of a notice of temporary suspension issued to a pistol shooting range, the notice must also state— a that the suspension is to enable the Arms Regulator to consider cancelling the shooting range’s certification on that ground; and b that the suspension lasts until notice of the decision as to whether to cancel the certification is given to the range operator, but, if the notice is not given within 90 days after the suspension takes effect, the suspension ends with the close of that 90-day period. 246 Providing false information in licence application A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person supplies particulars or answers in any application for a licence knowing them to be incorrect or misleading. 247 Altering or misusing licence A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person,— a with intent to deceive,— i adds to a licence any words or figures extraneous to the licence as issued; or ii alters on or erases from any licence any words or figures; or iii uses or retains any licence— A to which have been added any words or figures extraneous to the licence as issued; or B from which any words or figures have been erased from the licence as issued; or C on which any words or figures on the licence as issued have been altered; or b being a licence holder, wilfully parts with possession of their licence in order that the licence may be used by another person; or c uses or attempts to use a licence issued in the name of another person with the intention of procuring the possession of any standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun (including a restricted airgun), standard magazine, large-capacity pistol magazine, restricted magazine, or ammunition. 248 Occupier of premises or driver of vehicle deemed to be in possession of specified item or explosive found in premises or vehicle This section applies to a person who is— a in occupation of any land or building on which a specified item or an explosive is found: b the driver of any vehicle in which a specified item or an explosive is found. For the purposes of this Act, the person is deemed to be in possession of the specified item or explosive unless the person proves that it was not their property and that it was in the possession of some other person. Subsection (2) does not exclude the liability of any other person. In this section, specified item means any of the following: a a standard firearm: b a restricted firearm: c an imitation firearm: d a pistol: e a restricted weapon: f an airgun: g a restricted magazine: h a large-capacity pistol magazine: i a pistol carbine conversion kit . : j ammunition: k restricted ammunition. 249 Person in possession of arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition must give identifying information to Police A person in possession of any arms items , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition must, on demand, give their full name, address, and date of birth to a constable who is in uniform or who produces evidence that they are a constable. If any a person refuses to give their name, address, or date of birth, or gives false particulars about their name, address, or date of birth, a constable— a may caution that the person; and b if that the person persists in the refusal or fails or continues to refuse or fails to give the correct particulars, may arrest the person without warrant. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, in response to a demand under subsection (1) or (2) ,— a without reasonable excuse, refuses to give their name, address, or date of birth; or b willingly gives false particulars about their name, address, or date of birth. 250 Unlawfully carrying or possessing explosive A person commits an offence if the person, without having a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose,— a carries any explosive; or b possesses any explosive. A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or to a fine not exceeding $15,000. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant was carrying, or in possession of, any explosive, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose lies on the defendant. 250 Carrying or possessing restricted firearm, standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, restricted magazine, or explosive without lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose A person commits an offence if the person, without having a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose,— a carries any restricted firearm, standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, restricted magazine, or explosive without lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose; or b possesses any restricted firearm, standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, restricted magazine, or explosive without lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose. A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or to a fine not exceeding $15,000. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant was carrying, or had in their possession, any restricted firearm, standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, restricted magazine, or explosive, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose lies on the defendant. 251 Unlawfully carrying Carrying or possessing imitation firearm or restricted airgun without lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose A person commits an offence if the person, without having a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose,— a carries or possesses an imitation firearm; or b carries or possesses a restricted airgun. A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years or to a fine not exceeding $15,000. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant was carrying, or in possession of, an had in their possession, any imitation firearm or restricted airgun, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose lies on the defendant. 252 Unlawfully carrying or possessing restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon in public place A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without lawful purpose, carries or possesses in a public place— a a restricted firearm; or b a pistol; or c a restricted weapon. 253 Unlawfully carrying or possessing standard firearm, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in public place A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without lawful purpose,— a carries a standard firearm, an airgun, ammunition, or an explosive in a public place; or b possesses a standard firearm, an airgun, ammunition, or an explosive in a public place. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant was carrying in any public place or had in their possession in any public place any standard firearm, airgun, ammunition, or explosive, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful purpose lies on the defendant. 252 Carrying or possessing restricted firearm or restricted ammunition in public place without lawful purpose A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without lawful purpose,— a carries or possesses a restricted firearm in a public place: b carries or possesses any restricted ammunition in a public place. 253 Carrying or possessing standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in public place without lawful purpose A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years or to a fine not exceeding $15,000 if the person, without lawful purpose,— a carries any standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in a public place; or b possesses any standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in a public place. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant was carrying in any public place or had in their possession in any public place any standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, ammunition, or explosive, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful purpose lies on the defendant. 254 Carrying pistol, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, or restricted weapon without authority A person must not carry a pistol, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, or restricted weapon in any place beyond the curtilage of their dwelling, except under and in accordance with the conditions endorsed on their firearms licence or visitor licence. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against subsection (3) if the defendant proves— a that they are a firearms licence holder; and b that they have owned the firearm to which the charge relates since before 16 May 1969; and c that, immediately before 16 May 1969, they were registered under section 9 of the Arms Act 1958 as the owner of that firearm; and d that, although that firearm is less than 762 millimetres in length, it has not been reduced below that length since 15 May 1969 and is not designed or adapted to be held and fired with one hand. 255 Carrying restricted firearm with criminal intent A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person carries any restricted firearm with intent to commit an offence. 256 Carrying standard firearm, airgun, pistol, imitation firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive with criminal intent A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person— a has with them any standard firearm, airgun, pistol, imitation firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive (a specified item ); and b intends, while having the specified item with them, to— i commit an offence punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 years or more; or ii resist arrest, or prevent the arrest of another person. In a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) , proof that the defendant had any specified item with them and intended to commit an offence, or to resist or prevent arrest, is evidence that the defendant intended to have the specified item with them while committing the offence, or resisting or preventing arrest. 257 Presenting restricted firearm at another person A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, presents at any other person— a a restricted firearm; or b anything that, in the circumstances, is likely to lead that other person to believe it to be a restricted firearm. For the purposes of an offence against subsection (1)(a) , it does not matter whether the restricted firearm is loaded or capable at the time of the offence of discharging any shot, bullet, missile, or other projectile. 258 Presenting pistol, restricted weapon, standard firearm, or airgun at another person A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, presents a pistol or restricted weapon (whether or not the pistol or restricted weapon is loaded or capable at the time of the offence of discharging any shot, bullet, missile, or other projectile) at any other person. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, presents at any person anything that, in the circumstances, is likely to lead that person to believe that it is a pistol, restricted weapon, standard firearm, or airgun. 259 Discharging standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun in or near dwellinghouse or public place A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, discharges a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun in or near a dwellinghouse or a public place so as to— a endanger property; or b endanger, annoy, or frighten any person. 260 Using, discharging, or carrying exempt standard firearm or exempt pistol without lawful purpose A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $1,000, if the person, without lawful purpose, uses, discharges, or carries anywhere— a an exempt standard firearm: b an exempt pistol. In any prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) in which it is proved that the defendant used, discharged, or carried a firearm of a kind described in that subsection, the burden of proving the existence of a lawful purpose lies on the defendant. 261 Carelessly using standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person causes bodily injury to, or the death of, any person by carelessly using a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person, being a person who has in their charge, or under their control, a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun loaded with a shot, bullet, cartridge, missile, or other projectile, whether in its breech, barrel, chamber, or magazine, leaves that standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun in any place in such circumstances as to endanger the life of any person without taking reasonable precautions to avoid such danger. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, discharges or otherwise deals with a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun in a manner likely to injure or endanger the safety of any person or with reckless disregard for the safety of others. It is no defence to the crime of manslaughter that the guilty act or omission proved against the person charged is an act or omission constituting an offence against this section. 262 Using or attempting to use restricted firearm or pistol to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years if the person makes, or attempts to make, any use whatsoever of any restricted firearm or pistol with intent to resist or prevent the lawful arrest or lawful detention of— a themselves: b any other person. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, at the time of committing an offence punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 years or more, possesses a restricted firearm or pistol . It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against subsection (2) if the defendant proves that they possessed the restricted firearm or pistol for a lawful purpose. 263 Using or attempting to use standard firearm, etc, to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person makes, or attempts to make, any use whatsoever of any standard firearm, restricted weapon, airgun, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive with intent to resist or prevent the lawful arrest or detention of themselves or another person. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, at the time of committing an offence punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 years or more, has in their possession any pistol, restricted weapon, restricted ammunition, or explosive. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years if the person, at the time of committing an offence punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 years or more, possesses any standard firearm, airgun, imitation firearm, or ammunition. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under offence against subsection (2) or (3) if the defendant proves that they possessed the standard firearm, airgun, pistol, imitation firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive for a lawful purpose. 264 Purchasing arms items item intending to unlawfully sell or supply A person commits an offence if the person purchases or acquires, or enters into a contract or an arrangement to purchase or acquire, an arms item intending to sell or otherwise supply the arms item to another person who is not lawfully entitled to possess the arms item. A person who is not lawfully entitled to possess an arms item ( A ) commits an offence if A enters into a contract or an arrangement, or arrives at an understanding, with the holder of a firearms licence or business licence ( B ) for the purchase or acquisition of an arms item by B on behalf of A. A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) or (2) is liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 10 years. 265 Trafficking arms items item, or ammunition , or restricted ammunition A person commits an offence if the person intentionally— a moves, delivers, sends, or transfers any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition into New Zealand without lawful authority, or if the arms item is not marked in accordance with this Act and any regulations , whether or not the person intends to export the item from New Zealand ; or b moves, delivers, sends, or transfers any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition from New Zealand to another country without lawful authority , or if the arms item is not marked in accordance with this Act and regulations; or c moves, delivers, sends, or transfers any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition through or across New Zealand to another country without lawful authority; or d moves, delivers, sends, or transfers any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition into another country from or through New Zealand without lawful authority. A person commits an offence if the person intentionally enters into a contract or an arrangement, or arrives at an understanding, to do anything described in subsection (1) . A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) or (2) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years. For the purposes of this section, anything that purports to be, or is intended to have the effect of, a contract, an arrangement, or an understanding must be treated as a contract, an arrangement, or an understanding (as the case may be). Any arms item , or ammunition , or restricted ammunition that is imported within the meaning of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 and that arrives in New Zealand in any manner in contravention of this section must be treated, on importation, as a restricted good for the purposes of the Customs and Excise Act 2018, except sections 388 and 389 of that Act. 266 Manufacturing or assembling arms items without authority A person commits an offence if the person— a intentionally— i manufactures or assembles an arms item using parts that have been illegally manufactured, imported, or trafficked; or ii enters into a contract or an arrangement, or arrives at an understanding, to manufacture or assemble an arms item using parts that have been illegally manufactured, imported, or trafficked; or b does not hold a business licence, but intentionally— i manufactures an arms item for sale, transfer, rental, or other supply; or ii enters into a contract or an arrangement, or arrives at an understanding, to manufacture an arms item for sale, transfer, rental, or other supply. A person who commits an offence against subsection (1) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years. For the purposes of this section, anything that purports to be, or is intended to have the effect of, a contract, an arrangement, or an understanding must be treated as a contract, an arrangement, or an understanding (as the case may be). 267 Possessing digital blueprint to illegally manufacture arms item A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years if the person possesses a digital blueprint relating to the manufacture of an arms item in circumstances that indicate an intention to manufacture the arms item (for example, the person has polymers, filaments, resins, or other materials that enable the manufacture of the arms item, and has access to a 3-D printer or other machinery or equipment capable of manufacturing the item). However, subsection (1) does not apply to a person who— a holds a business licence that authorises the manufacture of the arms item; or b holds a firearms licence and— i is manufacturing the arms item for personal use; and ii is lawfully entitled to possess the arms item. For the purposes of subsection (1) , a person possesses a digital blueprint if the person— a possesses a computer or other data storage device on which the digital blueprint is held, stored, or recorded; or b controls or accesses the digital blueprint by means of a remote computer or web portal (even if the remote computer or web portal is in the control of another person or is outside New Zealand). In this section, digital blueprint , in relation to an arms item, includes— a any type of digital, electronic, or photographic reproduction of a technical drawing relating to the arms item design of the item : b any electronic coding that enables the manufacture of the arms item. 268 Possessing ammunition components intending to manufacture ammunition A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years if the person— a possesses any component of ammunition within the meaning of paragraph (a) of the definition of that term in section 5 in circumstances that indicate an intention to use that component to manufacture ammunition (for example, the person holds instructional material or guidance on how to manufacture ammunition); and b possesses, or has access to, tools, equipment, or machinery capable of enabling the manufacture of ammunition. However, subsection (1) does not apply to a person who holds a firearms licence. 269 Assembling , etc, restricted firearm A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years if the person, without reasonable excuse,— a assembles a restricted firearm; or b converts a standard firearm into a restricted firearm. However, subsection (1) does not apply if— a the person holds a firearms licence that bears an endorsement permitting them to possess a restricted firearm; and b the endorsement has been made specific to the restricted firearm by the issue of a permit to possess the restricted firearm. 270 Being in charge of standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun while under influence of drink or drug A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, while in charge of any standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun , is under the influence of drink or a drug to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun. 271 Obstructing arms officer A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $1,000, if the person obstructs an arms officer in the exercise of any right of inspection or entry , search, seizure, or detention conferred by this Act. 272 Reporting of injuries caused by standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun standard firearms, restricted firearms, pistols, restricted weapons, or airguns A person using a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, or airgun who causes bodily injury to, or the death of, any person must, as soon as is reasonably practicable, report the incident in person— a at the nearest Police station; or b to a Police employee. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to a fine not exceeding $1,000, if the person contravenes subsection (1) . 273 Records to be kept by animal and biosecurity controller in respect of location of restricted firearms and restricted magazines shared under multi-user agreement This section applies to an animal and biosecurity controller who enters into a multi-user agreement with the chief executive. The animal and biosecurity controller must keep a record of the location of each of the restricted firearms and restricted magazines that are shared between employees under the agreement. The record required to be kept under subsection (2) must contain the prescribed particulars. An animal and biosecurity controller must, at all times,— a permit an arms officer to inspect and make copies of the records kept under subsection (3) , or any entry in those records; and b provide to an arms officer on demand all further information in their possession with respect to any restricted firearm or restricted magazine. An animal and biosecurity controller commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the animal and biosecurity controller, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with contravenes this section. 275 Infringement offences A person who is alleged to have committed an infringement offence may— a be proceeded against by the filing of a charging document under section 14 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 ; or b be issued with an infringement notice under section 276 . Proceedings commenced in the way described in subsection (1)(a) do not require the leave of a District Court Judge or Registrar under section 21(1)(a) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 . See section 21 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 for the procedure that applies if an infringement notice is issued. 276 When infringement notice may be issued An arms officer may issue an infringement notice to a person if the officer believes on reasonable grounds that the person is committing, or has committed, an infringement offence. 277 Revocation of infringement notice before payment made An arms officer may revoke an infringement notice before— a the infringement fee is paid; or b an order for payment of a fine is made or deemed to be made by a court under section 21 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 . The officer must take reasonable steps to ensure that the person to whom the notice was issued is made aware of the revocation of the notice. The revocation of an infringement notice before the infringement fee is paid is not a bar to any further action as described in section 275(1) against the person to whom the notice was issued in respect of the same matter. 278 What infringement notice must contain An infringement notice must be in the prescribed form and must contain the following particulars: a details of the alleged infringement offence that fairly inform a person of the time, place, and nature of the alleged offence: b the amount of the infringement fee: c the address of the Arms Regulator: d how the infringement fee may be paid: e the time within which the infringement fee must be paid: f a summary of the provisions of section 21(10) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 : g a statement that the person served with the notice has a right to request a hearing: h a statement of what will happen if the person served with the notice neither pays the infringement fee nor requests a hearing: i any other prescribed matters. 279 How infringement notice may be served An infringement notice may be served on the person who an arms officer believes is committing or has committed the infringement offence by— a delivering it to the person or, if the person refuses to accept it, bringing it to the person's notice; or b leaving it for the person at the person's last known place of residence with another person who appears to be of or over the age of 14 years; or c leaving it for the person at the person's place of business or work with another person; or d sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person's last known— i place of residence; or ii place of business or work; or iii postal address; or e sending it to an electronic address that the person has given to an arms officer. Unless the contrary is shown,— a an infringement notice (or a copy of it) sent by prepaid post to a person under subsection (1) is to be treated as having been served on that person on the fifth working day after the date on which it was posted; and b an infringement notice sent to a valid electronic address is to be treated as having been served at the time the electronic communication first enters an information system that is outside the control of the Arms Regulator. 280 Payment of infringement fees All infringement fees paid for infringement offences must be paid into a Crown Bank Account. 281 Reminder notices A reminder notice must be in the prescribed form and must include the same particulars, or substantially the same particulars, as the infringement notice. Despite section 24(1)(e) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957, a reminder notice may be served on a person for the purposes of section 21(2) of that Act by sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person’s last known postal address, or by serving it in accordance with section 279(1)(e) of this Act,— a in addition to the other modes of service set out in section 24(1) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957; and b without otherwise limiting or affecting the operation of section 24 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957. 282 Time for prosecutions not limited Section 25 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 does not apply to prosecutions for offences against this Act. 283 Liability of principals and agents This section applies if an offence is committed against this Act or any regulation by a person ( A ) acting as the agent or employee of another person ( B ). B is liable for the offence as if B had personally committed it , if it is proved that B— a authorised, permitted, or consented to the act or omission constituting the offence; or b knew the offence was, or was to be, committed and failed to take all reasonable steps to prevent or stop it. This section does not limit the liability of A. 284 Offences committed by corporations When an offence against this Act punishable by imprisonment (whether or not it is also punishable by a fine) is committed by a corporation, the corporation is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $40,000. 285 Extraterritorial jurisdiction for offences against section 265, 266, 329, or 330 Even if the acts or omissions alleged to constitute the offence occurred wholly outside New Zealand, proceedings may be brought for any offence against section 265, 266, 329, or 330 — a if the person to be charged— i is a New Zealand citizen; or ii is ordinarily resident in New Zealand; or iii has been found in New Zealand and has not been extradited; or iv is an entity incorporated or registered under the law of New Zealand; or b if any of the acts or omissions are alleged to have occurred on board— i a ship registered, or required to be registered, under the Ship Registration Act 1992 ; or ii a ship used as a ship of the New Zealand Defence Force; or iii an aircraft registered, or required to be registered, in New Zealand under the Civil Aviation Act 1990 ; or iv an aircraft for the time being used as an aircraft of the New Zealand Defence Force; or v an aircraft that is leased to a lessee whose principal place of business is in New Zealand, or who is a New Zealand citizen or a person ordinarily resident in New Zealand. The following sections do not apply to an offence against section 265, 266, 329, or 330 : a section 8 of the Crimes Act 1961 (which relates to jurisdiction in respect of crimes on ships or aircraft beyond New Zealand): b section 400 of the Crimes Act 1961 (which requires the consent of the Attorney-General to proceedings in certain cases for offences on ships or aircraft). Nothing in this section limits— a the application of section 265, 266, 329, or 330 to acts or omissions that occurred wholly in New Zealand; or b the application of section 7 of the Crimes Act 1961 to the occurrence in New Zealand of— i an act or omission forming part of an offence; or ii an event necessary to the completion of an offence; or c the application of section 8A of the Crimes Act 1961 . In this section, ordinarily resident in New Zealand , in relation to a person, means the person— a is domiciled in New Zealand; or b is living in New Zealand and the place where that person usually lives is, and has been for the immediately preceding 12 months, in New Zealand, whether or not that person has on occasion been away from New Zealand during that period. 286 Attorney-General’s consent required No charging document may be filed against any person in relation to an offence against section 265, 266, 329, or 330 committed outside New Zealand unless the Attorney-General consents to the filing of the charging document. A person alleged to have committed an offence against section 265, 266, 329, or 330 may be arrested without a warrant or a warrant for their arrest may be issued and executed, and they may be remanded in custody or on bail, even though the consent of the Attorney-General has not yet been obtained under subsection (1) , but no further or other proceedings may be taken until the consent has been obtained. 287 Protection of persons acting under authority of this Act No action, claim, or demand whatsoever may be brought or be made or allowed by or in favour of any person against the Crown, or any Minister of the Crown, or any person acting in good faith in the execution or intended execution of this Act, except in respect of any compensation that is payable in accordance with the express provisions of this Act. 288 Interpretation In this subpart,— associate of a gang or an organised criminal group means an individual who associates with a gang or an organised criminal group criminal activity means an activity that constitutes the commission of an offence firearm or related item means any arms item, imitation firearm, or ammunition insignia , in relation to a gang or an organised criminal group,— a means a sign, symbol, or representation commonly displayed to denote membership of, or an affiliation with, a gang or an organised criminal group, not being a tattoo; and b includes any item or thing to which a sign, symbol, or representation referred to in paragraph (a) is attached or affixed (for example, clothing or a vehicle) member of a gang or an organised criminal group includes the following: a an individual who is a prospective member or nominee: b an individual who demonstrates affiliation to with a gang or an organised criminal group by displaying the gang’s or group’s insignia: c an individual who is involved in the affairs of a gang or an organised criminal group for the likely purpose of participating in a criminal activity prospective member or nominee , in relation to a gang or an organised criminal group, means a person who is a member of the gang or the organised criminal group but who does not have full membership status. 289 When FPO may be made This section applies when a court is sentencing an offender who— a has been convicted of— i an offence under offence against section 31, 50, 55, 56, 255, 256, 257, 262, 263, 265, 266, 269, 329, or 350 ; or ii a specified violent offence as defined in section 4 of the Victims’ Orders Against Violent Offenders Act 2014 ; or iii an offence under offence against section 98A, 189A, 216Q, or 308A of the Crimes Act 1961 ; or iv an offence under offence against any of sections 6A to 10 or sections 12 to 13E of the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002 ; and b committed the offence— i when aged 18 years or over; and ii after 15 November 2022. This section also applies when a court is sentencing an offender who— a has been convicted of— i an offence under offence against any of the following Acts that is punishable by imprisonment for a term of 1 year or more: A this Act: B the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 : C the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013 ; or ii an offence against any of the following provisions of the Crimes Act 1961 : A the provisions of Part 8 (crimes against the person): B the provisions of Part 10 (crimes against rights of property): C the provisions of Part 11 (threatening, conspiring, and attempting to commit offences); and b committed the offence— i when aged 18 years or over; and ii after 2 March 2025; and c at the time of committing the offence was— i a member of a gang or an organised criminal group; or ii an associate of a gang or an organised criminal group. The court may make an FPO against the offender if the court is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that the imposition of an FPO is necessary, reasonable, and appropriate to assist in managing the risk that the offender poses to public safety. 290 Effect of FPO An FPO made against an offender prohibits the offender from accessing, possessing, or using any firearm or related item. An FPO is subject to— a the standard conditions set out in section 291 , as may be varied or modified under section 292 by the court making the FPO; and b any special conditions imposed under section 293 by the court making the FPO. 291 Standard conditions of FPO The standard conditions of an FPO are that the offender against whom the order is made must not— a associate with or, in any place (including a vehicle), otherwise be in the presence of a person who has with them any firearms or related items that are not in secure storage: b reside at any premises in which any firearms or related items are stored: c join, or remain a member of, any shooting club (including an airsoft or a paintball shooting club) or firearms club of any kind, visit the premises of such clubs, or attend the events of such clubs: d attend any shooting range or shooting gallery: e attend an activity of any kind that involves the use of any firearms or related items: f visit any premises or place at which firearms or related items are manufactured, sold, repaired, hired, lent, or otherwise supplied. For the purposes of subsection (1)(b) , a person resides at any particular premises if the person resides at the premises for at least 2 days (whether consecutive or not) in any period of 12 months. 292 Varying or modifying standard conditions of FPO When making an FPO against an offender, the court may vary or modify the standard conditions of the FPO set out in section 291 having regard to— a the nature and seriousness of the offence in respect of which the offender has been convicted; and b the circumstances of the offending; and c the offender’s personal circumstances (for example, the effect that the standard conditions would have on the offender’s employment opportunities); and d any other matters that the court considers relevant. The court may not vary or modify the standard condition in section 291(1)(b) unless it is satisfied that there are sufficient safeguards in place to ensure that the offender is not reasonably likely to obtain access to the firearms or related items stored on the premises. For the purposes of subsection (2) , the court may take into account any proposal agreed between the responsible person and the chief executive to prescribe conditions on the responsible person’s firearms licence. In subsection (3) , responsible person means the firearms licence holder responsible for the secure storage of the firearms and related items in the premises referred to in section 291(1)(b) . 293 Special conditions of FPO When making an FPO against an offender, the court may impose any 1 or more special conditions, additional to the standard conditions, that the court considers are reasonably necessary to prevent the offender from accessing, possessing, or using any firearms or related items. 294 Commencement and duration of FPO If a court makes an FPO when imposing a non-custodial sentence on the offender, the FPO commences when it is made. If a court makes an FPO when imposing a custodial sentence on the offender, the FPO commences when the offender is released from custody (not being a temporary release under section 62 of the Corrections Act 2004 ). An FPO continues in force for a period of 10 years unless sooner revoked by a court. 295 Varying, modifying, or revoking FPOs A person who is subject to an FPO may, at any time after the FPO has been in force for 5 years, apply to the court that made the FPO for an order— a varying or modifying any of the conditions of the FPO; or b revoking the FPO. An application under subsection (1) may not be made in respect of an FPO if an application has previously been made under subsection (1) in respect of the FPO within the previous 2 years. On an application made under subsection (1)(a) , the court may vary or modify any standard or special condition of the FPO if it is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that the condition is no longer reasonably necessary to prevent the applicant from accessing, possessing, or using any firearms or related items. On an application made under subsection (1)(b) , the court may revoke the FPO if it is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that the FPO is no longer necessary, reasonable, and appropriate to assist in managing the risk that the applicant poses to public safety. 296 Varying, modifying, or replacing FPO on subsequent conviction This section applies if— a a court is sentencing an offender in the circumstances described in section 289(1) or (2) ; and b the offender is already subject to an FPO in respect of previous offending. The court may— a vary or modify any of the existing conditions of the FPO; or b impose any special conditions, or additional special conditions; or c revoke the FPO and make a new FPO. 297 Appeal against decision to make or not make FPO is appeal against sentence An FPO is a sentence, and subpart 4 of Part 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (appeals against sentence) applies to any decision to make or not make an FPO. 298 Offence to breach firearms prohibition order A person commits an offence if the person breaches a firearms prohibition order by— a accessing, possessing, or using any firearm, pistol, pistol carbine conversion kit, restricted weapon, airgun, imitation firearm, magazine, part of a firearm or restricted weapon, restricted item, or ammunition; or b failing, without reasonable excuse, to comply with any condition of the order. A person who is convicted of an offence under offence against subsection (1)(a) is liable,— a if the person accesses, possesses, or uses a restricted firearm, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years: b in any other case, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years. A person who is convicted of an offence under offence against subsection (1)(b) is liable to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. 299 Offence to supply firearms, etc, to person subject to firearms prohibition order A person must not supply, or give possession of, any standard firearm, pistol, pistol carbine conversion kit, restricted weapon, airgun, imitation firearm, magazine, part of a standard firearm or restricted weapon, restricted item, or ammunition to another person knowing that the other person is subject to a firearms prohibition order. A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction,— a if the person supplies or gives possession of a restricted firearm, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years: b in any other case, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years. 300 Establishment of Arms Regulator This section establishes the Arms Regulator. The Arms Regulator is an autonomous agency of the New Zealand Police ( see section 303 ). A reference in any legislation to the New Zealand Police (however worded) includes the Arms Regulator unless— a the legislation containing the reference, or any other legislation, provides otherwise; or b the context of the legislation containing the reference requires a different interpretation. ( See also sections 311 to 311C .) 301 Functions of Arms Regulator The Arms Regulator has the following functions: a to administer the regimes under this Act in respect of— i firearms licences, business licences, museum licences, and museum worker licences , and visitor licences : ii permits to import and permits to possess arms items, ammunition, restricted ammunition, and other items: iii endorsements in respect of pistols, restricted weapons, restricted firearms, and restricted magazines: iv approvals to manufacture arms items: v approvals in respect of ammunition sellers: vi certificates of approval in respect of pistol shooting clubs: vii enrolments of non-pistol shooting clubs: viii certifications of pistol shooting ranges: ix enrolments of non-pistol shooting ranges: b to monitor and enforce compliance with conditions of any of the authorisations listed in paragraph (a) and compliance with requirements under this Act (without limitation to the law enforcement functions of the Police): c to continue and maintain the arms registry: d to promote and educate the public about firearms safety and compliance with this Act: e to oversee the storage, disposal, and reporting of surrendered, seized, forfeited, or otherwise detained items arms items and ammunition : ea to facilitate the reporting and sharing of information about risks and incidents involving arms items: f to administer records required to be kept under this Act and co-ordinate any lawful sharing or disclosure of information obtained for the purposes of this Act: g to collaborate with any government agency that performs functions in relation to arms (including the Police and the New Zealand Defence Force): h to carry out perform or exercise any other functions, duties, and powers given to the Arms Regulator under this Act or any other legislation: i to carry out perform any functions that are incidental and related to, or consequential on, the functions set out in paragraphs (a) to (h) . 302 Appointment of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive of the Arms Regulator must be appointed in accordance with this section. If there is a vacancy or an impending vacancy for the chief executive position, the Secretary for Justice must— a inform the responsible Minister; and b invite the responsible Minister to identify any matters that the chairperson of the panel under this section must take into account when deciding upon the which person is to be recommended for appointment to the position. The Secretary for Justice must notify the vacancy using the means that the Secretary for Justice is satisfied will enable suitably qualified persons to apply for the position. For each vacancy, a panel must be established with the following members: a the Secretary for Justice as chairperson: b 2 or more persons appointed by the Secretary for Justice after consultation with the responsible Minister. The panel must— a examine applicants for the position; and b seek advice from other sources that the panel thinks relevant; and c deliberate on which applicant is to be recommended for appointment; and d give preference to the person who is best suited to the position on merit. The chairperson may invite other persons to assist the panel and to take part in the examination of applicants or the panel’s deliberations, or both. After the deliberations of the panel, the chairperson must decide which applicant is to be recommended to the responsible Minister for appointment. The chairperson must be satisfied that the applicant to be recommended to the responsible Minister has the appropriate experience and expertise for the role. The chairperson must forward to the responsible Minister the name of the applicant to be recommended for appointment, together with full details of that person’s qualifications. The responsible Minister must refer the chairperson’s recommendation to the Governor-General in Council. The Governor-General in Council must decide whether to accept or decline the chairperson’s recommendation is to be accepted or declined . The responsible Minister must inform the chairperson whether the chairperson’s recommendation has been accepted or declined. If the chairperson’s recommendation is accepted, the Secretary for Justice must— a appoint the person recommended; and b publish notice of the appointment in the Gazette without delay. If the chairperson’s recommendation is declined,— a the Governor-General may direct the chairperson to appoint a particular person to the position; and b the Governor-General is not required to comply with subsections (2) to (13) when doing so; and c the Secretary for Justice must appoint the person and publish notice of the appointment in the Gazette without delay. 302A Term of appointment of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive— a holds office for the period, which may not exceed 5 years, that is specified in the instrument by which the chief executive is appointed: b is eligible for reappointment once only: c may resign from office by written notice to the responsible Minister. 303 Responsibility and independence of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive is responsible to the responsible Minister for— a carrying out performing or exercising the functions, duties, and powers of the Arms Regulator; and b the general conduct of the Arms Regulator; and c managing the activities of the Arms Regulator efficiently, effectively, and economically. The chief executive must supply to the responsible Minister any information relating to the operations and performance of the Arms Regulator that the responsible Minister requests. In carrying out performing or exercising their functions, duties, and powers, the chief executive— a must act independently of the Commissioner and the responsible Minister; but b is subject to general policy directions given by the responsible Minister. The chief executive is not subject to any direction requiring the performance or non-performance of a particular act, or the bringing about of a particular result, in respect of a particular person or matter. The Commissioner is not responsible for the performance of functions or duties, or the exercise of powers, of or by the Arms Regulator unless expressly provided in this Act or other legislation. The chief executive is responsible for the performance of functions and duties, and the exercise of powers, of or by the Arms Regulator only and not any functions, duties, or powers of the Police unless expressly provided in this Act or other legislation. The chief executive may operate outside the strategic and policy framework of the New Zealand Police. The chief executive must have arrangements in place to avoid or manage conflicts of interest relating to carrying out performing or exercising the chief executive’s functions, duties, and powers. 304 Powers of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive has all the powers that are reasonably necessary or expedient to carry out perform or exercise the functions, duties, and powers given to the chief executive under this Act or any other legislation. However, the chief executive may not manage assets and liabilities. 305 Delegation of employment powers to chief executive of Arms Regulator In relation to employees of the New Zealand Police a person, other than a constable, who perform s the functions or duties or exercise exercises the powers of the Arms Regulator under delegated authority of the chief executive ( see section 306 ), the Commissioner is treated as— a having delegated to the chief executive the functions, duties, and powers described in the following provisions of the Policing Act 2008: i section 18 (power to appoint and remove employees): iii sections 58 to 65 (employment of Police employees): iv section 70 (suspension or removal of Police employees): v sections 72 to 77 (compulsorily or voluntarily leaving Police due to incapacity); and b not having those functions, duties, and powers in relation to those employees. The chief executive has the rights and duties and may exercise the powers referred to in subsection (1) in the same manner, subject to the same restrictions, and with the same effect as if they had been conferred on the chief executive directly by the Policing Act 2008. 305A Power to delegate other functions, duties, and powers to chief executive of Arms Regulator The Commissioner may, either generally or particularly, delegate in writing to the chief executive any functions, duties, and powers that the Commissioner considers appropriate for the purpose of giving effect to this subpart, including functions, duties, and powers delegated to the Commissioner. The chief executive may perform any functions or duties, or exercise any powers, delegated under subsection (1) in the same manner and with the same effect as if they had been conferred on the chief executive directly and not by delegation. Subsection (2) is subject to any general or special directions given or conditions imposed by the Commissioner. If the chief executive purports to act under a delegation made under subsection (1) , the chief executive is, in the absence of proof to the contrary, presumed to be acting in accordance with the terms of the delegation. No delegation to the chief executive affects or prevents the performance or exercise of any function, responsibility, duty, or power by the Commissioner, or affects the responsibility of the Commissioner for the actions of the chief executive acting under the delegation. 306 Delegation of functions, duties, and powers of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive— a may, either generally or particularly, delegate in writing to any person any of the functions, duties, and powers of the chief executive, including functions, duties, and powers delegated to the chief executive under any legislation : b must ensure that an appropriate delegation is at all times in place under this section to enable a person to act in place of the chief executive during any absence or incapacity of the chief executive or during any vacancy in the office of the chief executive. However, the chief executive may delegate to a constable under subsection (1) only if the chief executive considers it to be operationally necessary. However, the chief executive may only delegate to a constable under subsection (1) particular functions, duties, and powers of the chief executive, and the delegation may be made subject to any restrictions or conditions the chief executive thinks fit. A delegation to a constable under subsection (1A) may only be made if the delegation— a is necessary to support the Arms Regulator in performing or exercising its functions, duties, and powers; and b is in accordance with the working arrangements agreed between the chief executive and Commissioner under this section. A person to whom any functions, duties, or powers are delegated may, with the prior approval of the chief executive in writing, subdelegate those functions, duties, or powers to any employee of the New Zealand Police who is not a constable. A person to whom any functions, duties, or powers are delegated or subdelegated may perform those functions or duties, or exercise those powers, in the same manner and with the same effect as if they had been conferred on that person directly by this Act and not by delegation or subdelegation. Subsection (3) is subject to any general or special directions given , or conditions imposed , by the chief executive. A person purporting to act under a delegation or subdelegation is, in the absence of proof to the contrary, presumed to be acting in accordance with the terms of the delegation or subdelegation. A delegation or subdelegation may be made to— a a specified person or persons of a specified class; or b the holder or holders for the time being of a specified position, or of a specified class of positions. No delegation or subdelegation affects or prevents the performance or exercise of any function, responsibility, duty, or power by the chief executive, or affects the responsibility of the chief executive for the actions of any person acting under the delegation or subdelegation. 307 Revocation of delegations A delegation or subdelegation under section 305A or 306 is revocable at any time in writing. A delegation made by a chief executive of the Arms Regulator or a Commissioner who has ceased to hold office continues to have effect as if made by the successor in office of that chief executive or Commissioner . A subdelegation made by a person under section 306(2) who has ceased to hold office continues to have effect as if made by the successor in office of that person. 308 Remuneration and conditions of appointment of chief executive of Arms Regulator The chief executive is paid the remuneration and allowances determined by the Remuneration Authority. The terms and conditions of appointment of the chief executive are determined from time to time by the Secretary for Justice unless otherwise provided in this Act. 309 Removal of chief executive of Arms Regulator The Secretary for Justice may recommend the removal of the chief executive to the responsible Minister for just cause or excuse, inability to perform the functions of the office, bankruptcy, neglect of duty, or misconduct that is proved to the satisfaction of the Secretary for Justice. The responsible Minister must refer the Secretary for Justice’s recommendation to the Governor-General in Council. The Governor-General in Council must decide whether accept or decline the Secretary for Justice’s recommendation is to be accepted or declined . The responsible Minister must inform the Secretary for Justice whether the Secretary for Justice’s recommendation has been accepted or declined. If the Secretary for Justice’s recommendation is accepted, the Secretary for Justice must remove the chief executive from office. 310 Working arrangements between Arms Regulator and Police The Commissioner must provide the corporate services and support necessary to enable the Arms Regulator to carry out perform or exercise its functions, duties, and powers, except to the extent that any variation is agreed between the Commissioner and the chief executive. The chief executive and the Commissioner must— a agree on working arrangements between the Arms Regulator and the Police; and b co-operate and collaborate with each other for the purposes of the working arrangements. The working arrangements must, without limitation,— a set out the resources and administrative support that the Commissioner will provide to the Arms Regulator and the estimated cost of that support ; and aa set out how the Commissioner and the chief executive will work together in relation to delegations under section 306 ; and b set out how costs will be shared between the Arms Regulator and the Police; and c be published on— i an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Arms Regulator; and ii an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Police. 311 Certain provisions of Policing Act 2008 not to apply to arms officers The following provisions of the Policing Act 2008 do not apply in relation to arms officers: a section 19 (undertaking by new Police employees): b sections 24 to 27 (Police employees authorised to exercise constable powers or perform policing roles): c sections 30 and 31 (command and control of Police employees). 311A Application of Independent Police Conduct Authority Act 1988 The Independent Police Conduct Authority Act 1988 applies, with any necessary modifications,— a to persons who perform the functions or duties or exercise the powers of the Arms Regulator under delegated authority of the chief executive as if they were employees of the New Zealand Police (if they are not already such employees); and b to the chief executive performing the functions or duties or exercising the powers of the Arms Regulator as if they were the Commissioner performing the functions or duties or exercising the powers of the Police. 311B Application of Public Finance Act 1989 Sections 34(1) and (2) and 37 of the Public Finance Act 1989 apply, with any necessary modifications, to the chief executive of the Arms Regulator as if they were the chief executive of a department. Sections 38 to 41 of the Public Finance Act 1989 apply, with any necessary modifications, to the Arms Regulator as if it were a department. Sections 45AA, 45AB, and 45CA of the Public Finance Act 1989 apply, with any necessary modifications, to the Arms Regulator as if it were a specified agency. The Public Finance Act 1989 applies, with any necessary modifications,— a as if the Arms Regulator is a departmental agency and the New Zealand Police is its host department; and b on the basis that the following working arrangements apply to the Arms Regulator ( see sections 303(5A) and 304(2) ): i the chief executive may operate outside the strategic and policy framework of the New Zealand Police: ii the chief executive may not manage assets and liabilities. However,— a section 34(1)(a) of the Public Finance Act 1989— i applies to the chief executive, with any necessary modifications, despite section 34(4) of that Act; and ii does not apply to the Commissioner to that extent; and b section 34(2) of the Public Finance Act 1989— i applies to the chief executive, with any necessary modifications, as if the Arms Regulator administers the appropriation that funds the Arms Regulator; and ii does not apply to the Commissioner to that extent. 311C Application of Public Service Act 2020 Sections 12(2) and (5) , 13(2), and 104 of the Public Service Act 2020 apply, with any necessary modifications, to the chief executive of the Arms Regulator as if they were a public service chief executive. Minimum standards of integrity and conduct set under section 17, and guidance on integrity and conduct issued under section 19, of the Public Service Act 2020 may be made to apply to the Arms Regulator as if it were part of the public service. Sections 13(1) 11 and 18 of the Public Service Act 2020 apply, with any necessary modifications, to the Arms Regulator as if it were part of the public service. 312 Monitoring department to monitor Arms Regulator The monitoring department has the following role in relation to the Arms Regulator: a assisting the responsible Minister to carry out the Minister’s role in relation to the Arms Regulator; and b performing or exercising any or all of the following functions or powers: i administering legislation: ii tendering advice to Ministers: iii any other functions or powers in this Act or another Act that may, or must, be performed or exercised by the monitoring department. The responsible Minister must give a written notice to the monitoring department that sets out the Minister’s expectations relating to how the department carries out that role. After the first notice is given, a notice must be in force under this section. 313 Firearms Licensing Review Committee established A Firearms Licensing Review Committee is established. All secretarial and administrative services required by the Review Committee must be supplied by the Arms Regulator. 314 Function of Firearms Licensing Review Committee The function of the Review Committee is to review the following decisions of the chief executive — : a declining to issue a firearms licence on an application made under section 67 : b imposing a condition on a firearms licence under section 74 : c revoking a firearms licence under section 151 or 156 . 315 Membership of Firearms Licensing Review Committee The Review Committee must consist of members who are— a lawyers appointed by the responsible Minister who have, for at least 5 years, held a New Zealand practising certificate as a barrister or as a barrister and solicitor; and b persons appointed by the responsible Minister to represent the interests of licence holders; and c persons appointed by the chief executive. Members are appointed for a term not exceeding 5 years and may be reappointed for 1 or more further terms. 316 Matters relating to appointment of members by responsible Minister This section relates to members of the Review Committee appointed by the responsible Minister under section 315(1)(a) or (b) . The members are entitled to— a be paid remuneration at a rate and of a kind determined in accordance with the fees framework; and b be reimbursed for actual and reasonable travelling and other expenses in accordance with the framework. A member vacates office if they— a are removed, by written notice given by the responsible Minister, for— i incapacity; or ii bankruptcy; or iii neglect of duty; or iv misconduct; or b resign by written notice given to the responsible Minister. The member is not, just because of their membership of the Review Committee, to be treated as employed in the service of the Crown for the purposes of— a the Public Service Act 2020; or b the Government Superannuation Fund Act 1956. 317 Firearms Licensing Review Committee to sit in panels For the purpose of carrying out its function, the Review Committee must sit in panels of 3 members. The members of a panel must comprise— a a lawyer appointed by the responsible Minister under section 315(1)(a) ; and b a person appointed by the responsible Minister under section 315(1)(b) ; and c a person appointed under section 315(1)(c) . The chief executive assigns members of the Review Committee to a panel and determines in each case which panel of the Review Committee is to conduct a particular review. A member of the Review Committee cannot be assigned to a panel if the member was involved in the decision being reviewed by the panel. Panels of the Review Committee may sit concurrently. 318 Procedure of panels A panel may determine a review of a decision— a on the papers; or b at an oral hearing conducted by electronic means. Subject to subsection (1) and any regulations, a panel may determine its own procedure. A panel may require the applicant or the chief executive to provide any further information that the panel considers reasonably necessary to enable the conduct of the review. 319 Immunity of members No member of the Review Committee is personally liable for any act or omission done in relation to the Review Committee’s functions, unless the act or omission was done in bad faith. 315 Membership of Firearms Licensing Review Committee The Review Committee consists of members appointed by the responsible Minister. When appointing members, the responsible Minister must appoint persons who— a have held a New Zealand practising certificate as a barrister, or a barrister and solicitor, for at least 5 years; or b have— i knowledge of firearms safety and use; and ii experience in either or both of the following: A governance and regulatory systems: B public safety. Members are appointed for a term not exceeding 5 years and may be appointed for 1 or more further terms. 316 Remuneration of members of Firearms Licensing Review Committee A member of the Review Committee is entitled to be— a paid remuneration at a rate and of a kind determined in accordance with the fees framework; and b reimbursed for actual and reasonable travelling and other expenses in accordance with the framework. A member is not, just because of their membership of the Review Committee, to be treated as employed in the service of the Crown for the purposes of— a the Public Service Act 2020; or b the Government Superannuation Fund Act 1956. 316A Removal of members of Review Committee A member of the Review Committee vacates office if they— a are removed, by written notice given by the responsible Minister, for— i incapacity; or ii bankruptcy; or iii neglect of duty; or iv misconduct; or b resign by written notice given to the responsible Minister. 317 Firearms Licensing Review Committee to sit in panels For the purpose of performing its function, the Review Committee must sit in panels of 3 members. The members of a panel must comprise— a 1 member appointed under section 315(2)(a) ; and b 2 members appointed under section 315(2)(b) . Panels of the Review Committee may sit concurrently. 318 Procedure of Firearms Licensing Review Committee The Review Committee may determine its own procedure. Subsection (1) is subject to— a any other provision of this Act; and b any regulations made under this Act. 318A Determination of reviews A panel must determine a review of a decision on the papers. Before determining a review, a panel may— a require the applicant or the chief executive to provide any further information that the panel considers reasonably necessary to enable the conduct of a review: b give the applicant an opportunity to make oral submissions by phone, audiovisual link, or other remote access facility if the panel considers it appropriate and the necessary facilities are available. 319 Immunity of members No member of the Review Committee is personally liable for any act or omission done in relation to the Review Committee’s functions, unless the act or omission was done in bad faith. 319A Confidentiality of information A member of the Review Committee who has information in their capacity as a member that would not otherwise be available to them must not disclose that information to any person, or make use of, or act on, that information, except— a for the purposes of the Review Committee; or b as required or permitted by law; or c in accordance with subsection (2) . A member may disclose, make use of, or act on the information if— a the member is first authorised to do so by the Review Committee; and b the disclosure, use, or act in question will not, or will not be likely to, prejudice the Review Committee. 319B Disclosure of certain matters to applicant not required Nothing in section 81(2)(b) requires the Review Committee to disclose any information to an applicant if the disclosure would be likely to— a endanger the safety of any person; or b prejudice the maintenance of the law; or c prejudice the security or defence of New Zealand or the international relations of the Government of New Zealand; or d prejudice the entrusting of information to the Arms Regulator, the Police, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, or the Government Communications Security Bureau on the basis of confidence by— i the Government of any other country, or an agency of the Government of any other country; or ii any international organisation. 320 Arms Advisory Group continued There continues to be an Arms Advisory Group. The Arms Advisory Group is the same body as the body of that name existing immediately before the commencement of this section. The Arms Advisory Group comprises the following members appointed by the responsible Minister: a a chairperson; and b not more than 8 other members. The purpose of the Arms Advisory Group (the advisory group ) is to advise the responsible Minister on matters that contribute to achieving the objectives of this Act, in particular, the safe use and control of arms. The advisory group may provide advice on any matter relating to arms in New Zealand, including legislative proposals, policies for regulating New Zealand’s firearms arms regime, and the promotion of firearms arms safety. 321 Operations of advisory group The members of the advisory group must appoint a deputy chairperson from among their number at their first meeting. The advisory group may determine its own procedure, subject to compliance with any relevant provisions of this Act and any regulations. The advisory group must, as soon as practicable after the end of each financial year, provide the responsible Minister with an annual report of its proceedings and operations during that year. The Secretary for Justice must provide the resources and administrative support necessary to enable the advisory group to perform its functions. The members of the advisory group are immune from liability in civil proceedings for good-faith actions or omissions in pursuance, or intended pursuance, of when performing or exercising, or intending to perform or exercise, the duties, functions, or powers of the group. 322 Provisions relating to appointment of members of advisory group The membership of the advisory group must comprise a balance of people from both the firearm-owning community and the non-firearm-owning community, including people who are concerned from a health perspective about the mitigation of harm from firearms. In appointing any member of the advisory group, the responsible Minister must have regard to the need for the advisory group to possess knowledge and experience in some or all of the following areas: a New Zealand and international arms regulatory systems: b public health and safety, particularly as it relates to firearms arms : c firearms research: d firearms safety and the use of firearms: e membership of any community organisation or group involved in firearms awareness, safety, or law reform: f any other matters that the Minister considers relevant. A member may be appointed for a term of up to 3 years as specified in the notice of appointment and be reappointed in the same manner. The responsible Minister must, by notice in the Gazette , notify the appointment of members and their terms of office. A member is entitled to be— a paid remuneration at a rate and of a kind determined in accordance with the fees framework; and b reimbursed for actual and reasonable travelling and other expenses in accordance with the fees framework. 323 Removal of members of advisory group The responsible Minister may, if satisfied that there is just cause to do so, remove from office any member of the advisory group. The removal must be made by written notice to the member. The notice must state— a the day on which the removal takes effect, which must not be earlier than the day on which the notice is received; and b the reasons for the removal. For the purposes of subsection (1) , just cause includes misconduct, inability to perform the functions of office, neglect of duty, and breach of any of the determinations of the group regarding its operations and procedures (depending on the seriousness of the breach). 324 Items requiring identification marking The following items require an identification marking: a a standard firearm: b a restricted firearm: c a permanently deactivated firearm: d a blank-firing gun: e a pistol: f a pistol carbine conversion kit: g a restricted weapon: h a restricted airgun that is not designed for use in airsoft or paintball sports: i a restricted magazine: j a major firearm part if it is not an integrated part of a standard firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon that has an identification marking. In this section, standard firearm , pistol , and restricted firearm exclude an antique firearm. 325 Identification markings by manufacturers and importers A person who manufactures an item that is required by section 324 to have an identification marking must stamp, cast, or engrave an identification marking on the item at the time of its manufacture. A person who imports into New Zealand an item referred to in section 324(1)(a) to (h) that does not have an identification marking must stamp, engrave, or cause to be stamped or engraved , in clear view on the frame or receiver, or upper or lower receiver, of the item , within 30 days after the day on which the item is imported , a marking by which the item may be identified. A person who imports into New Zealand an item referred to in section 324(1)(i) and (j) that does not bear an identification marking must stamp, engrave, or cause to be stamped or engraved , in clear view on that item , within 30 days after the day on which the item is imported , a marking by which the item may be identified. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1), (2), or (3) . 326 Identification markings by business licence holders A business licence holder who receives an item that does not have an identification marking as required by section 324 must, within 30 days after the day on which the item is received, stamp, engrave, or cause to be stamped or engraved , in clear view (which must be on the frame or receiver, or upper and lower receiver, of the item if the item is an item referred to in section 324(1)(a) to (h) ) a marking by which the item may be identified. A business licence holder commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the business licence holder, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) . 327 Marking status of permanently deactivated firearm A person who manufactures or modifies a standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon so that it is a permanently deactivated firearm must include an additional identification marking made in accordance with the requirements of any regulations that shows the status of the standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon. A person who receives a permanently deactivated firearm that does not have an identification marking showing its status must arrange for the permanently deactivated firearm to be marked accordingly. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1) or (2) . 328 Possessing item lacking identification marking A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or to a fine not exceeding $15,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, knowingly possesses an item referred to in section 324 that does not have an identification marking. — a an identification marking: b an identification marking showing that it is a permanently deactivated firearm, if that is the status of the firearm. 329 Falsifying identification markings A person commits an offence if the person intentionally— a marks a specified firearm with any false identifying markings at the time of manufacture; or b marks an imported firearm with any false identifying markings; or c marks with any false identification markings any other item that requires an identification marking. A person who commits an offence and under subsection (1) is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years if the person contravenes subsection (1) . In this section, specified firearm means— a a standard firearm: b a restricted firearm: c a pistol: d a restricted weapon : . e a permanently deactivated firearm. 330 Removing or altering identification markings A person must not, without reasonable excuse, obliterate, remove, or alter an identification marking on an item specified in section 324 . A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years if the person contravenes subsection (1) . If any identification marking is removed for a lawful and proper purpose, the item must be re-marked in accordance with the marking requirements of this Act and any regulations. 331 Arms item and ammunition may be relinquished to licensed business Any person may relinquish to a licensed business any arms item or ammunition that is in that person’s possession. It does not matter whether the person is lawfully or unlawfully in possession of the arms item or ammunition. 332 Responsibilities of licensed business in respect of relinquished arms item, etc A licensed business that receives any arms item or ammunition into its possession under section 331 must, within 5 working days, notify the chief executive of the receipt of the arms item or ammunition. After receiving a notification under subsection (1) ,— a the chief executive may require the licensed business to deliver the arms item or ammunition to the nearest Police station for inspection and to enable inquiries to be made; and b the licensed business must comply with the request within 5 working days. Subsections (4) to (6) apply in addition to subsections (1) and (2) if a licensed business receives any of the following arms items under section 331 : a a pistol: b a large-capacity pistol magazine: c a pistol carbine conversion kit: d a restricted weapon: e a restricted item. If the business licence held in respect of the licensed business does not have an endorsement permitting possession of the kind of item received by the licensed business, the licensed business must deliver the item to the nearest Police station within 5 working days of receipt. If the licensed business is not required to deliver the arms item or ammunition under subsection (2) or (4) , the licensed business may— a retain the item until the chief executive notifies the licensed business that the licensed business cannot retain the item; or b deliver the item to the nearest Police station within 5 working days of receipt. If a licensed business retains an item under subsection (5)(a) , the licensed business must, within 5 working days of the receipt of the item, apply for a permit to possess the item (unless the item is a restricted part). A licensed business may retain possession of any arms item or ammunition that it receives under section 331 if— a the licensed business is not required to deliver the arms item or ammunition under subsection (2) or (4) ; or b the licensed business, following an application made under subsection (6) , is issued with a permit to possess the arms item and the chief executive decides not to require the licensed business to deliver the item. A licensed business that complies with subsections (1) to (7) after receiving a restricted firearm, restricted magazine, pistol, large-capacity pistol magazine, pistol carbine conversion kit, or restricted weapon does not contravene section 57 58 . A licensed business that complies with subsection (1) need not record for the purposes of section 97 the particulars of any arms item or ammunition received under section 331 . 333 Voluntary delivery of arms item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition to arms officer or Police employee If any arms item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition is delivered to an arms officer or a Police employee by a person who is not authorised to be in possession of the arms item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition, the Police have the discretion not to prosecute in any case where— a the offence is considered to be one of possession only; and b there is no public interest in proceeding with the prosecution. 334 Powers to require delivery of airguns or antique firearms Any person who is not a licence holder and who is in possession of an airgun or antique firearm may be required by the Commissioner, by notice in writing, to deliver the airgun or antique firearm to a constable or an arms officer. The Commissioner may only issue a notice under subsection (1) only if the Commissioner is of the opinion that the person is not a fit and proper person to be in possession of an airgun or antique firearm. For the purposes of forming an opinion under subsection (1A) in relation to any person, the Commissioner may have regard to whether the person satisfies any of the criteria in section 69(1)(a) to (p) . A person who is served with a notice under subsection (1) must deliver the airgun or antique firearm to a constable or an arms officer, and section 162(2) 164A(2) and (3) applies accordingly with all necessary modifications. Any person required under this section to deliver an airgun or antique firearm may appeal under section 341 against the requirement, and that section applies accordingly with all necessary modifications. A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to a fine not exceeding $10,000, if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with a notice given to them under subsection (1) . 335 Destruction, etc, of items declared restricted This section applies if an Order in Council is made under section 363 or 364 , 364, or 364AA declaring, for the purposes of this Act,— a any semi-automatic firearm or pump-action firearm to be a restricted firearm: b any magazine to be a restricted magazine: c any ammunition to be restricted ammunition: d any weapon item to be a restricted weapon: e any airgun to be a high-energy airgun. Before the expiry of 1 month after the publication under the Legislation Act 2019 of the Order in Council (the post-publication period ), a person in possession of any item that is the subject of the Order in Council, or any part intended or adapted for use as part of any such item, must cause the item or part— a to be destroyed; or b to be disposed of to a person approved by the chief executive; or c to be exported from New Zealand; or d to be delivered to an arms officer or a Police employee. The Minister of Finance must, subject to subsection (4) , pay compensation out of a Crown Bank Account for the value of all items in a serviceable condition, and for all parts, delivered in accordance with subsection (2)(d) . Compensation may not be paid under subsection (3) unless the Minister of Finance is satisfied— a that the person claiming compensation has acquired the item or part lawfully; and b if the person has brought the item or part into New Zealand, that they have done so lawfully. The person does not commit an offence under offence against section 14, 20, 31, 34, or 37 for the possession of the restricted weapon, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, restricted ammunition, restricted weapon, high-energy airgun, or any part of such items, during the post-publication period. 336 Seizure of items held by licensed business A constable may, on being authorised to do so by a warrant issued by the Commissioner, seize and take possession of any items all or any arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, and explosives in the possession or under the control of a licensed business. The Commissioner may issue a warrant for the purposes of subsection (1) if the licence of the person in possession of the arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, or explosives business licence under which a licensed business is authorised to carry on a business activity expires, or has been surrendered, suspended, or revoked. For the purpose of executing a warrant issued under subsection (1) , the constable authorised by that warrant may enter into or upon any land or building in or upon which any items arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, and explosives may be, and in so doing may use such force as may be necessary. It is the duty of a constable executing a warrant issued under subsection (1) — a to have it with them; and b to produce it on initial entry and, if requested, at any subsequent time; and c if they are not in uniform, to produce on initial entry and, if requested, at any subsequent time, evidence that they are a constable. Subject to section 163 , all items arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, and explosives seized under this section may be detained by the Police for such period as the Commissioner thinks fit, or may, in the discretion of the responsible Minister, become the property of the Crown, free and discharged from all right, title, estate, or interest that any other person may possess in the items arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, and explosives . The Minister of Finance must pay out of a Crown Bank Account compensation in respect of all items arms items, ammunition, and explosives seized under this section that have become the property of the Crown. In this section, item means— a an arms item: b an imitation firearm: c any ammunition: d any restricted ammunition: e any explosive. 337 Restoration of articles seized On application by way of originating application, a District Court Judge may make any order the Judge thinks just and expedient for the restoration of anything seized and detained in pursuance of the right of search, seizure, or detention conferred by this Act. 338 Authorising disposal of firearms, etc, Disposal of items detained by chief executive or Police Any item arms items, imitation firearms, ammunition, and explosives detained by the chief executive or Police under this Act for 12 months or more may be disposed of in any manner the chief executive or Commissioner directs. Nothing in this section limits— a the operation of any other provisions of this Act as to the disposal of anything seized or detained under this Act; or b the authority of a District Court Judge to make an order under section 337 for the restoration of anything seized or detained. 339 Carriers and persons authorised to exercise powers of seizure Despite anything in this Act, but subject to any prohibitions, limitations, restrictions, or conditions imposed by any regulations,— a any carrier may have possession of an arms item, imitation firearm, explosive, or any ammunition in the course of carriage under a contract of carriage: b any person who seizes any article referred to in paragraph (a) in the exercise of a power conferred by any Act may have possession of that article so long as they are acting in the exercise of that power and in connection with their official duties. In subsection (1)(a) , carrier includes any postal operator within the meaning of the Postal Services Act 1998 . 340 Forfeitures Subsection (2) applies if a person is convicted of an offence relating to— a being in possession of, or carrying or using, any arms item, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive: b purchasing or acquiring, or entering into an arrangement to purchase or acquire, or selling or supplying any arms item, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive to a person who is not lawfully entitled to be in possession of the arms item, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive. If this subsection applies, the sentencing court must, as part of the sentencing, order that the arms item, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive be forfeited to the Crown. If a person is convicted of an offence for breaching a firearms prohibition order and is in possession of any firearm or related item, the sentencing court must, as part of the sentencing, order that the firearm or related item be forfeited to the Crown. If a person is convicted of an offence against section 266, 267, or 268 relating to the illegal manufacture of any arms item, imitation firearm, or ammunition, the sentencing court must, as part of the sentencing, order that any tools, equipment, or machinery in the possession of the person and that are capable of being used for the manufacture of the arms item, imitation firearm, or ammunition be forfeited to the Crown. Subsection (4A) applies if a person is convicted of— a an offence against section 266 or 267 relating to the illegal manufacture of an arms item; or b an offence against section 268 relating to the illegal manufacture of ammunition. If this subsection applies, the sentencing court must, as part of the sentencing, order that any tools, equipment, or machinery in the possession of the person and that are capable of being used for the manufacture of the arms item or ammunition be forfeited to the Crown. However, subsections (2), (3), and (4) (4A) do not apply if the court considers that, given the circumstances of the offending, it would cause undue hardship to make an order under those provisions. Anything ordered to be forfeited to the Crown— a is forfeited to the Crown accordingly; and b may be disposed of in any manner that the Commissioner directs. In subsection (3) , firearm or related item has the same meaning as in section 288 . 341 Appeals to District Court A person who is the subject of any of the following decisions may appeal against the decision: a a decision by the chief executive to refuse an application for any of the following: i a business licence: ii a consent to conduct an arms activity at a place of business other than the place of business in respect of which a business licence is issued: iii a museum licence: iv a museum worker licence: v an approval to be an ammunition seller: vi an endorsement: vii a permit to import: viii a permit to possess: ix a certificate of approval for a pistol shooting club under section 211 : x a certification of a pistol shooting range under section 226 : xi an enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club under section 222 : xii an enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range under section 238 : b a decision by the chief executive to issue subject to conditions, or to revoke, any of the following: i a business licence: ii a museum licence: iii a museum worker licence: iv an approval to be an ammunition seller: v an endorsement: vi a permit to import: vii a permit to possess: viii a certificate of approval for a pistol shooting club under section 211 : ix a certification of a pistol shooting range under section 226 : x an enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club under section 222 : xi an enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range under section 238 : c a decision of the Firearms Licensing Review Committee. A person who has been served with a notice under section 138 or 334 may appeal against the requirement in the notice. The chief executive may appeal against a decision of the Firearms Licensing Review Committee. An appeal under this section is made to a District Court Judge by an originating application. On hearing an appeal under this section, the District Court Judge may confirm, vary, or reverse the decision appealed against. Subsection (7) applies if— a an application for a firearms licence has been refused on the ground set out in section 70(2) ; or b a firearms licence has been revoked under section 156 after being suspended under section 145(1)(c) . If this subsection applies, the District Court Judge may, even though the Judge finds that ground established, vary or reverse the decision appealed against if satisfied that, since the decision was given, adequate measures have been taken to deny access to the firearm to the person whose likelihood of access to it was the basis of the refusal or revocation. Subject to section 343 , the decision of a District Court Judge is final and conclusive. A person is not excused from complying with any of the provisions of this Act on the ground that they have lodged an appeal and the appeal or the decision on the appeal is pending. 342 Appeal in respect of compensation The amount of compensation payable under any of the provisions of this Act in respect of any arms item, ammunition, or explosive of the following must not exceed its actual market value . : a an arms item: b any ammunition: c any restricted ammunition: d any explosive. If a dispute arises as to the amount of compensation payable, an application may be made to a District Court Judge for a decision. An application made to the court under this section must be made by an originating application. Subject to section 343 , the decision of a District Court Judge is final and conclusive. 343 Appeal on question of law If any party to an appeal under section 341 or to an application under section 342 is dissatisfied with the decision of the District Court Judge as being erroneous in point of law, the party may appeal to the High Court on the question of law only. Subpart 8 of Part 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 applies as far as applicable with the necessary modifications to every appeal under this section. 344 Sharing of information between chief executive and Commissioner The chief executive must provide the Commissioner with access to the information recorded in the arms registry ( see section 348 , which sets out the information that is recorded in the arms registry). The Commissioner must provide the chief executive with access to any information that the Commissioner— a holds in relation to— i any applicant for a licence, approval, endorsement, permit, certification, or enrolment under this Act: ii any licence holder, approved ammunition seller, shooting club, or shooting range; and b considers may assist the chief executive in the performance or exercise of the Arms Regulator’s functions, duties, and powers under this Act. In addition to the information that may be shared between the chief executive and the Commissioner under subsections (1) and (2) , the chief executive and the Commissioner may share between themselves other information that they hold if they enter into an agreement providing for the sharing of that information that— a satisfies the requirements of section 345 ; and b ensures that appropriate protections are or will be in place to maintain the confidentiality of the information. This section applies despite anything to the contrary in any contract, deed, or document. In relation to personal information, subsections (1) to (3) — a provide for the disclosure of information that is additional to the grounds of permitted disclosure under information privacy principle 11 or 12 set out in section 22 of the Privacy Act 2020 ; but b do not otherwise limit or affect those information privacy principles. 345 Sharing of information must be in accordance with agreement An agreement between the chief executive and the Commissioner for the sharing of information under section 344(3) must state— a the information, or class or classes of information, that the chief executive or the Commissioner may have access to; and b the method and form of access; and c the safeguards in place to protect the information, including safeguards relating to the appropriate use and retention of the information; and d that the information accessed by the chief executive or the Commissioner may only be used in accordance with the particular purposes for which it was accessed. An agreement may be varied by the chief executive or the Commissioner. The chief executive and the Commissioner must consult the Privacy Commissioner before entering into or varying an agreement. 346 Publication of agreements An agreement between the chief executive and the Commissioner for the sharing of information under section 344(3) , and all variations to the agreement, must be published on— a an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Arms Regulator; and b an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Commissioner. However, subsection (1) does not apply to— a an agreement or a variation of an agreement that may be withheld on a request made under the Official Information Act 1982: b a provision of an agreement or a variation of an agreement that may be withheld on a request made under the Official Information Act 1982. If, in reliance on subsection (2)(a) , an agreement or a variation of an agreement is not published, a summary of the agreement or variation of the agreement must be published on— a an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Arms Regulator; and b an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Commissioner. 346A Arms Regulator to provide Commissioner with access to information relating to transactions and dealings of licensed business The Arms Regulator must provide the Commissioner with access to information that it holds relating to the transactions and dealings of a licensed business that are conducted in the course of carrying on any business activity and involve the receipt, sale, or supply of arms items or ammunition. If the Arms Regulator does not hold the information required by the Commissioner in relation to a licensed business, the Arms Regulator must, on receipt of a request from the Commissioner,— a collect the required information from the licensed business; and b provide the Commissioner with access to that information. To enable the collection of information from a licensed business under subsection (2) , the licensed business must, in accordance with section 97(4) , permit an arms officer to inspect and make copies of its records, or any entry in its records. The Commissioner may access information under subsection (1) , or request information under subsection (2) , only if the information is reasonably necessary for a lawful purpose connected with a function, or an activity, of the Police. The Commissioner must be provided access to information under this section in accordance with the working arrangements agreed between the Arms Regulator and the Commissioner under section 310 . This section is repealed on the close of 24 June 2029. 347 Chief executive to keep arms registry The chief executive must, for the purposes of this Act, continue and maintain the arms registry kept and operated by the Commissioner under section 93 of the Arms Act 1983. 348 Content of arms registry The following particulars must be recorded in the arms registry: a the number and date of expiry of every type of licence held by a person under this Act: b every licence holder’s full name, date of birth, and address: c every endorsement on a licence: d every condition on a licence or an endorsement that is additional to conditions imposed by this Act or regulations made under section 362 : e the particulars of the make, model, and identifying markings of every standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, and restricted magazine possessed by a licence holder, and of the location of the standard firearm, restricted firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, and restricted magazine, if the particulars are held by the Arms Regulator: f information about any standard firearm, restricted firearm, or pistol that has been modified so that it is a permanently deactivated firearm: g information about any item that is imported and notified in accordance with section 202 : h every particular that regulations made under section 362 require to be recorded in the registry. 349 Obligation to provide information to arms registry This section applies to the following persons: a a firearms licence holder: b a business licence holder: c a museum licence holder: ca a visitor licence holder: d any other person (not being a museum worker licence holder) who is, or intends to be, in possession of an arms item. This section also applies to the following events in relation to any firearm or other item regulated by or under this Act: a its sale or supply, excluding a temporary transfer: b its purchase or receipt, excluding a temporary transfer: c its importation: d its exportation: e its manufacture: f its theft, loss, or destruction: g any other event specified for the purpose of this section in regulations made under section 362 . However, this section does not apply to an event specified in subsection (2) that is a temporary transaction for repair or modification. A person to whom this section applies, and a person who has responsibilty in relation to any event to which this section applies, must provide the relevant details to the chief executive in accordance with the prescribed time and any other prescribed requirements. In this section,— temporary transaction for repair or modification means a transaction between the owner of a pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm and a licensed business under which the pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm— a is delivered by the owner to the licensed business for repair or modification; and b is returned by the licensed business to the owner within 21 days after receiving the pistol, restricted weapon, or restricted firearm temporary transfer means— a a transfer of possession of the firearm (not being a pistol, restricted weapon, restricted magazine, or restricted firearm) or other arms item for less than 30 days: b the transfer of restricted firearms and restricted magazines between employees of an animal and biosecurity controller that are being shared under a multi-user agreement. 350 Failing to provide information to Arms Regulator A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, fails to provide information to the chief executive in accordance with section 349 . A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to a fine not exceeding $20,000, if the person— a intentionally fails to provide information to the chief executive in accordance with section 349 ; or b provides information to the chief executive for inclusion in the arms registry knowing the information to be false or misleading in a material respect. 351 Interpretation In sections 352 to 360 ,— accessing agency means— a the Department of Conservation; and b the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and c the New Zealand Customs Service arms item has the same meaning as in section 5 and includes, as an additional class of item, ammunition additional classes,— a ammunition: b restricted ammunition direct access , in relation to the registry, means to do either or both of the following (whether remotely or otherwise): a search the registry: b copy any information stored in the registry import and export information , in relation to a licence holder, means details relating to— a any permit to import issued to the licence holder under section 193, 194, or 195 : b any class or classes of arms items exported by the licence holder licence holder means— a a person who is the holder of a firearms licence; and b a person who at any time held a firearms licence licence information , in relation to a licence holder, means— a the licence holder’s— i full name; and ii date of birth; and iii residential or electronic address; and iv phone number; and b the following details about the licence holder’s firearms licence: i the firearms licence number; and ii the date of expiry of the firearms licence; and iii any endorsements on the firearms licence. 352 Relationship between sections 353 to 360 and other law legislation Sections 353 to 360 do not prevent or limit the collection, use, or disclosure of information that— a is authorised or required by or under any enactment legislation ; or b is permitted under any enactment legislation . 353 Direct access to licence information The Department of Conservation may have direct access to a licence holder’s licence information recorded in the registry. The purpose of the direct access is to provide administrative assistance to the Director-General of Conservation in relation to the issue, under section 38 of the Conservation Act 1987 , of permits for hunting. 354 Direct access to import and export information recorded in registry The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the New Zealand Customs Service may have direct access to a licence holder’s import and export information recorded in the registry. The purpose of the direct access is to assist those agencies in performing or exercising their functions, duties, and powers in relation to the movement of lawfully permitted and lawfully possessed arms items. 355 Direct access must be in accordance with direct access agreement All direct access authorised by section 353 or 354 must be in accordance with a written direct access agreement entered into between— a the Minister responsible for the accessing agency; and b the responsible Minister. 356 Matters to which Ministers must have regard before entering into direct access agreement Before entering into a direct access agreement, the Ministers referred to in section 355 must be satisfied— a that,— i in the case of direct access authorised by section 353 , the direct access will enable the Director-General of Conservation to more effectively or efficiently issue permits for hunting; or ii in the case of direct access authorised by section 354 , the direct access will enable the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade or the New Zealand Customs Service to perform and exercise their functions, duties, and powers more effectively or efficiently; and b that there are adequate safeguards to protect the privacy of individuals, including that the proposed compliance and audit requirements for the direct access, use, disclosure, and retention of the information are sufficient; and c that the agreement includes appropriate procedures for direct access, use, disclosure, and retention of the information. 357 Consultation before entering into direct access agreement Before entering into a direct access agreement, the Ministers referred to in section 355 must consult and invite comment on the proposed agreement from— a the Privacy Commissioner; and b the advisory group continued under section 320 . When consulted on a direct access agreement, the Privacy Commissioner must have particular regard to the matters that the Ministers need to be satisfied of before entering into the agreement that are specified in section 356(b) and (c) . The Ministers must have regard to any comment received from the Privacy Commissioner and the advisory group on the proposed agreement. 358 Content of direct access agreements A direct access agreement must specify— a the particular information in relation to licence holders that may be accessed: b the particular purpose or purposes for which the information may be accessed: c the particular function, duty, or power being, or to be, performed or exercised by the accessing agency for which the information is required: d the mechanism by which the information is to be accessed: e the position or designation of the person or persons in the accessing agency who may access the information: f the records to be kept in relation to each occasion on which the registry is accessed: g the safeguards that are to be applied for protecting information: h the requirements relating to storage and disposal of information obtained from the registry: i that the accessing agency may use the information only in accordance with the purposes for which it was accessed: j the requirements for reviewing the agreement: k the requirement to regularly audit direct access to the registry. 359 Variation of direct access agreement Sections 356 and 357 apply with any necessary modifications in respect of a proposal to enter into an agreement varying a direct access agreement. 360 Publication of direct access agreements A direct access agreement, and all variations to the agreement, must be published on— a an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the accessing agency; and b an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Arms Regulator. However, subsection (1) does not apply to— a a direct access agreement or a variation of a direct access agreement that may be withheld on a request made under the Official Information Act 1982: b a provision of a direct access agreement or a variation of a direct access agreement that may be withheld on a request made under the Official Information Act 1982. If, in reliance on subsection (2)(a) , a direct access agreement or a variation of a direct access agreement is not published, a summary of the agreement or the variation of the agreement must be published on— a an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the accessing agency; and b an internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Arms Regulator. 361 Health practitioners may give chief executive medical reports of persons unfit to use firearm This section applies to a health practitioner who— a has attended, or been consulted by, a person who the practitioner knows, or has reason to believe, is a firearms licence holder; and b is of the opinion that the health condition of the person is such that, in the interests of the safety of individuals or the public, the person— i should not be permitted to use or possess any arms items; or ii should only be permitted to use or possess arms items subject to limitations that may be warranted by the health condition of the licence holder. The health practitioner must consider notifying the chief executive as soon as practicable— a of their opinion under subsection (1) ; and b of the grounds on which their opinion is based; and c whether the practitioner believes the licence holder poses an immediate or imminent danger of self-harm or harm to others. If the chief executive has been notified by a health practitioner under subsection (2) about a person, the chief executive may require the person to undergo a further medical assessment by another independent health practitioner and, in that case, the person must— a undergo the further assessment; or b surrender their licence under section 139 . Any regulations made under section 362(1)(14) apply in relation to any notice given for the purpose of this section and to any action required under subsection (3) . A health practitioner is not liable to criminal, civil, or disciplinary proceedings by disclosing personal information in the course of performing any function or responsibility under this section, as long as the practitioner acts in good faith. 362 Regulations The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister, make regulations— General 1 providing for anything this Act says may or must be provided for by regulations: Licensing and approvals 2 providing for applicants for firearms licences to pass theoretical and practical tests as to their ability to handle firearms safely or to undergo courses of training designed to teach them to handle firearms safely: 3 exempting applicants or classes of applicants for firearms licences from passing tests prescribed under paragraph (2) : 4 prescribing the requirements to be an approved ammunition seller: 5 extending the expiry date of licences, approvals, and endorsements in the event of a pandemic, an epidemic, or an emergency being declared under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002: 6 providing for the issue of licences in any form: 7 providing for the replacement of licences and approvals: Sale or hire of arms items and ammunition 8 providing for 1 or more of the following in relation to the sale or hire of any arms items and ammunition: i material that must be included in any advertising, promotion, or display of any arms items and ammunition: ii advice that must be provided about legal conditions and requirements that apply to the purchase, possession, and use of arms items and ammunition (such as the legal age of purchase, licence or endorsement requirements, safe handling, transport, and storage): iii different requirements for different types of sale or hire activities carried out by licensed businesses: Security and storage of arms items 9 making provision for the secure storage of a vital part removed from a restricted firearm or restricted weapon to render it inoperable and prescribing precautions to be taken to prevent the theft or misuse of vital parts in the possession of any person or class of persons: 10 making provision for the security of any premises at which a licensed business carries on business, and prescribing precautions to be taken to prevent the theft or misuse of standard firearms, airguns, pistols, restricted items, restricted weapons, pistol carbine conversion kits, ammunition, and explosives in the possession of licensed businesses: 11 making provision for the security of any premises at which an ammunition seller carries on business, and prescribing precautions to be taken to prevent the theft or misuse of ammunition in the possession of ammunition sellers: 12 making provision for the security of premises at which any arms item or class of arms items is kept, and prescribing precautions to be taken to prevent the theft or misuse of standard firearms, airguns, pistols, restricted items, restricted weapons, pistol carbine conversion kits, ammunition, restricted ammunition, and explosives in the possession of any person or class of persons: Modifying restricted firearms 13 prescribing the process for modifying a restricted firearm to convert it into a standard firearm: Health practitioner reports 14 providing for 1 or more of the following in relation to notices given by health practitioners for the purposes of section 361 : i the information that the chief executive must provide to a licence holder when notifying the licence holder that a report has been received from a health practitioner: ii the period within which a licence holder must undergo a further assessment or surrender their licence for the purposes of section 361(3) , and any time limits or other requirements that apply to the assessment: iii the kinds or classes of health practitioners who may make a further assessment under section 361 for the purposes of section 361(3) : iv the responsibilities of a health practitioner who makes a further assessment: Pistol shooting clubs and ranges 15 prescribing conditions to which certificates of approval granted to pistol shooting clubs may be subject: 16 prescribing conditions to which certifications granted to pistol shooting ranges may be subject: 17 prescribing the particulars that are required to be included in annual reports of pistol shooting clubs, including (but not limited to) finances, storage, safety, discipline, training, competitions, office holders, membership, participating non-members, attendance, and ratios of members who are licence holders, endorsement holders, or trained range officers to those who are not: Firearms Licensing Review Committee 18 providing for matters not inconsistent with this Act that relate to the procedure to be followed by the Firearms Licensing Review Committee in conducting a review: Arms advisory group 19 providing for matters not inconsistent with this Act that relate to the operation of the arms advisory group continued under section 320 , including provisions that— i state the quorum necessary for the transaction of the group’s business: ii require members to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter on which the group is providing advice: iii prohibit members from disclosing any information provided to them in confidence in their capacity as members of the group: Arms registry 20 providing for any matters necessary or desirable for the efficient operation of the arms registry, including provisions that— i require licence holders or other persons to provide specified information to the chief executive for inclusion in the arms registry and specify the circumstances in which the requirement applies: ii specify the manner or form in which information is required to be provided to the chief executive for inclusion in the arms registry: iii impose additional requirements to be met for the purposes of the arms registry by licensed businesses that apply for consent to conduct business activities from places additional to the place of business specified in a business licence: iv impose additional requirements to be met for the purposes of the arms registry by persons who apply for— A an endorsement to permit a restricted firearm: B a permit to import: C a permit to possess: v impose different requirements for different kinds of licences, conditions, or endorsements: Guidance 21 about guidance or details of an administrative nature that the chief executive may issue in relation to this Act, including about— i the form or content of the guidance or details: ii the persons that may or must be consulted in preparing the guidance or details: iii the manner in which the guidance or details must be published or notified: Infringement offences 22 specifying, generally or particularly, any of the following as an infringement offence— i a breach of any condition to which a firearms licence is subject under section 73 or 74 : ii a breach of any condition to which a business licence is subject under section 92 or 93 : iii a breach of any condition to which a museum licence is subject under section 106B or 106C : iv a breach of any condition to which a museum worker licence is subject under section 114 or 115 : v a breach of any condition to which a visitor licence is subject under section 127 or 128 : vi a breach of any condition to which an approval granted under section 172 is subject under section 177 : vii a failure to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 181 or 243 : viii a failure to give notice under , and comply with, section s 133, 136, or 137 : 23 prescribing infringement offences for the breach of regulations: 24 prescribing for infringement offences— i maximum fines not exceeding— A $1,500 in the case of an individual; or B $3,000 in any other case: ii infringement fees not exceeding $1,000: Other 25 conferring or providing for exemptions from any provision of any regulation s : 26 prescribing offences in respect of the contravention of or non-compliance with any regulations, and the amounts of fines that may be imposed in respect of any the offences, which fines must not be an amount exceeding $2,000: 27 providing, for the purposes of the orderly implementation of any Order in Council made under section 363 , for— i any exemptions from any provisions of this Act or the regulations (subject to terms or conditions, if any); and ii any other transitional or savings matters: 28 prescribing the requirements for giving any notice of information to a person where that information is required to be given by this Act: 29 providing for anything incidental that is necessary for carrying out, or giving full effect to, this Act. Regulations made under subsection (1)(20) may be made only on the recommendation of the responsible Minister after being satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has consulted the Privacy Commissioner about the proposed regulations. No regulations made under subsection (1)(8) may come into force earlier than 3 months after the date of their publication under the Legislation Act 2019 unless the responsible Minister is satisfied that in all the circumstances there are reasons that justify an earlier commencement date and recommends accordingly. Regulations made under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 363 Order in Council relating to definitions of restricted firearm, restricted magazine, and restricted ammunition The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister,— a declare any semi-automatic firearm (except a small semi-automatic pistol) or pump-action firearm of a stated name or description to be a restricted firearm for the purposes of this Act: b declare any magazine of a stated name or description to be a restricted magazine for the purposes of this Act: c declare any ammunition to be restricted ammunition for the purposes of this Act. An order made under this section— a is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements); and b must be confirmed by an Act ( see subpart 3 of Part 5 of the Legislation Act 2019 ). 364 Declaring items to be restricted weapons or high-energy airguns The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister, declare— a any item (including an airgun) to be a restricted weapon for the purposes of this Act; or b any airgun to be a high-energy airgun for the purposes of this Act. The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister, declare any item (including an airgun) to be a restricted weapon for the purposes of this Act. However, the following items may not be declared, under subsection (1) , a restricted weapon for the purposes of this Act: a an anti-personnel mine (as defined in section 3 of the Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1988 ): b a cluster munition (as defined in section 6 of the Cluster Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 ). Any Order in Council made under this section may relate to any item or airgun specified by its name or trade name, or to any class of items or airguns identified by a description of that class. An order made under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 364AA Declaring items to be high-energy airguns The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister, declare any airgun to be a high-energy airgun for the purposes of this Act. Any Order in Council made under this section may relate to any airgun specified by its name or trade name, or to any class of airguns identified by a description of that class. An order made under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 364A Consultation required before regulations made under section 362, 363, or 364 , or 364AA The responsible Minister must not recommend the making of regulations under section 362, 363, or 364 , or 364AA unless the Minister is satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has— a consulted the chief executive; and b consulted the Commissioner; and c done everything reasonable to consult other persons or organisations (or representatives of those organisations) that appear to the Secretary for Justice to be affected or likely to be affected by the regulations, unless the responsible Minister is satisfied that in the circumstances it was not practicable to consult to that extent or to carry out any consultation. 365 Purpose of sections 366 to 373 The purpose of sections 366 to 373 is to enable the Arms Regulator to recover its costs in respect of certain activities undertaken under this Act. 366 Activities that may be subject to cost recovery The responsible Minister may recommend the making of a regulation under section 371 only if satisfied that the fee or charge concerned relates to an activity undertaken by the Arms Regulator in accordance with this Act in relation to a person, shooting club, or shooting range. The activities for which fees or charges may be imposed under section 371 — a include— i processing an application for a licence, including assessing whether the applicant is a fit and proper person: ii processing and determining an application for review made under section 79 : iii providing training and testing services in relation to obtaining a licence: iv issuing any licence under this Act: v processing any application for an endorsement, a permit to possess, or a permit to import: vi issuing any endorsement, a permit to possess, or permit to import: vii undertaking inspections and compliance checks, including checks relating to any licence, endorsement, permit, certification, conditions, or improvement notices: viii providing testing of samples in relation to firearms, firearm parts, restricted weapons, parts of restricted weapons, magazines, pistol carbine conversion kits, air pistol carbine conversion kits, blank-firing guns, exempt blank-firing guns, or ammunition: ix processing any application for approval of a pistol shooting club or certification of a pistol shooting range: x processing any application for enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club or non-pistol shooting range: xi approving the manufacture for sale of arms items and air pistol carbine conversion kits : b do not include— i the response of the Police to calls relating to potential offending; or ii the enforcement of infringement offences; or iii the conduct of criminal investigations; or iv the prosecution of criminal offences. 367 Criteria for cost recovery The responsible Minister may recommend that regulations be made under section 371 only if the responsible Minister is satisfied that,— a subject to the provisions of section 371 , the fee or charge recovers no more than the actual and reasonable costs (including both direct and indirect costs) of the activity to which the fee or charge relates; and b the fee or charge for the activity or class of activities to which the fee or charge relates is generally obtained from the users or beneficiaries of the service or class of services to which the activity relates at a level commensurate, as far as practicable, with their use of the service; and c the costs of the activity to which the fee or charge relates are efficiently incurred; and d the relationship between the costs of the activity to which the fee or charge relates and the nature and duration of the activity is clear. 368 Methods of cost recovery Regulations for the recovery of costs may provide for the following: a fixed fees or charges: b fees or charges based on a scale or formula or at a rate determined on an hourly or other unit basis: c the recovery by way of a fee or charge of estimated actual and reasonable costs expended in, or associated with, the performance of an activity: d fees or charges based on costs incurred from charges by third parties: e any combination of the above. Without limiting the way in which a fee or charge may be set, a fee or charge may be set at a level or in a way that— a is determined by calculations that involve an averaging of costs or potential costs: b takes into account costs or potential costs of activities that are not services to be provided directly to the person who pays the fee or charge, but are an indirect or potential cost arising from the undertaking of the activity in question in relation to a class of persons or all persons who use the service or class of services to which the activity relates: c takes into account indirect costs, which include the costs and potential costs of support, maintenance, and development associated with provision of the activity: d takes into account the time frame for performing the activity to which the fee or charge relates. 369 Payment of fee or charge A fee or charge prescribed by regulations made under section 371 is payable at the time prescribed in respect of a particular activity, whether that time is before, during, or after completion of the relevant activity. All fees and charges prescribed by regulations made under section 371 and received by the Arms Regulator or any other government agency must be paid into a departmental bank account. 370 Exemptions, waivers, and refunds Regulations made under section 371 may provide for exemptions from, or waivers or refunds of, any fee or charge prescribed by regulations, in whole or in part, in any class of case. Regulations made under section 371 may authorise the chief executive, as the chief executive thinks fit in the circumstances specified in those regulations, to exempt, waive, or refund the whole or any part of a prescribed fee or charge. If regulations authorise the chief executive to exempt, waive, or refund the whole or any part of a fee or charge,— a the instrument granting an exemption, waiver, or refund is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements), unless it applies only to 1 or more named persons; and b the regulations must contain a statement to that effect. 371 Regulations relating to cost recovery The Governor-General may, by Order in Council on the recommendation of the responsible Minister made after consultation in accordance with section 372 ,— a make regulations prescribing fees or charges for specified activities in accordance with sections 365 to 368 : b make regulations for the purposes of section 369 : c make regulations for the purposes of section 370 . Regulations under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 372 Consultation The responsible Minister may recommend that regulations be made under section 371 only if the responsible Minister is satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has done everything reasonable to consult the persons or organisations (or representatives of those organisations) that appear to the Secretary for Justice to be affected or likely to be affected by the fee or charge. The process for consultation must, to the extent practicable in the circumstances, include— a the giving of appropriate notice of the intention to make the regulation and of the contents of the proposed regulation; and b a reasonable opportunity for interested persons to make submissions; and c the adequate and appropriate consideration of those submissions. A failure to comply with this section does not affect the validity of any regulations made under section 371 . 373 Five-yearly review of cost recovery The responsible Minister must review the methods and levels of cost recovery at least once in every 5-year period that occurs since the original setting of, or latest change to, the cost recovery levels and methods. The Minister must ensure that consultation in accordance with section 372 takes place in relation to a review. Subsection (1) does not— a require all areas of cost recovery to be reviewed at the same time: b impose any time limit on the making of regulations to implement the results of a review. 374 Priority applications by persons travelling overseas to participate in international activities This section applies to a firearms licence holder— a who is travelling, or proposing to travel, overseas; and b whose firearms licence is due to expire during the period that they are proposing to be overseas; and c who has a valid reason for requiring a current firearms licence during the period that they are proposing to be overseas (for example, to participate in an international shooting competition or hunting competition); and d who applies for either or both of the following before travelling overseas: i a firearms licence: ii an endorsement. The person may request that their application be given priority. A request under subsection (2) must be— a in a form approved by the chief executive; and b supported by such evidence as the chief executive may require of the applicant’s intention to travel overseas and reason for requiring a current firearms licence while overseas; and c accompanied by a priority fee. 375 Obligations of owner or operator of craft temporarily visiting New Zealand and carrying specified items If a craft arriving from a foreign country is, at any time, temporarily berthed, moored, or anchored in any harbour or territorial waters of New Zealand, and has on board any specified items that are not being offloaded, the owner or operator of the craft must— a include details of all specified items on board the craft— i in an advance notice of arrival that is required to be provided to the New Zealand Customs Service under section 12 of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 ; or ii in an inward report that is required to be provided to the New Zealand Customs Service under section 24 of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 ; and b comply with any directions given by a Customs officer, a constable, or an arms officer relating to the secure storage of those specified items, which may include a direction that the specified items be temporarily delivered to a Customs officer, constable, or arms officer. If the owner or operator of a craft does not comply with any direction given under subsection (1)(b) , a constable or a Customs officer may— a board the craft; and b seize and detain the specified items; and c in effecting the seizure and detention of the specified items, use any reasonably necessary force. In this section,— craft has the same meaning as in section 5(1) of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 operator has the same meaning as in section 5(1) of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 owner has the same meaning as in section 5(1) of the Customs and Excise Act 2018 specified items means any standard firearms, pistols, restricted airguns, restricted items, restricted weapons, pistol carbine conversion kits, or ammunition. specified items means any of the following: a standard firearms: b pistols: c restricted airguns: d restricted items: e restricted weapons: f pistol carbine conversion kits: g air pistol carbine conversion kits: h ammunition: i restricted ammunition. 376 Service of documents Any notice or other document required or authorised by this Act to be served on or given to any person must be served in accordance with any prescribed requirements. 377 Review of this Act Before 31 December 2030, the responsible Minister must— a review the operation of this Act; and b consider whether amendments to this Act or any other enactments are necessary or desirable. The review must include reviewing— a the operation of the arms registry; and b all offences and penalties in this Act; and c the impact of this Act. The responsible Minister must present a copy of the review to the House of Representatives. 378 Repeal The Arms Act 1983 (1983 No 44) is repealed. 379 Revocations The Arms Regulations 1992 (SR 1992/346) are revoked. The following orders are revoked: a Arms (Military Style Semi-automatic Firearms–Pistol Grips) Order 2013 (SR 2013/464): b Arms (Prohibited Ammunition) Order 2019 (LI 2019/137): c Arms (Prohibited Magazine) Order 2019 (LI 2019/289): d Arms (Restricted Weapons and Specially Dangerous Airguns) Order 1984 (SR 1984/122). 380 Consequential amendments Amendments to other legislation Amend the legislation specified in Schedule 2 as set out in that schedule. 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions In this Part,— 1983 Act means the Arms Act 1983 commencement date means 23 September 2026 . This clause applies to an application made under section 23 of the 1983 Act for the issue of a firearms licence that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 67 . A firearms licence issued under section 24 of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been surrendered or revoked is to be treated as a firearms licence issued under section 70 . Any conditions that the licence is subject to continue to apply as if the conditions had been imposed under this Act. The firearms licence expires on the date specified in the licence. Nothing in subclause (3) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the suspension or revocation of a firearms licence. A person who is the holder of a firearms licence immediately before the commencement date is not disqualified under section 68 from holding the licence after the commencement date despite on that date being disqualified under section 68 from holding a licence . A person who possessed a blank-firing gun before the commencement date may continue to possess the blank-firing gun on and after the commencement date without having to comply with the requirement in section 16 . This clause applies to an application that— a was made under section 62 of the 1983 Act for the review of a decision to refuse an application for, or to revoke, a firearms licence; and b was made but not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had— a been made under section 79 to the chief executive for a review of the decision; and b been made within the period specified in section 79(2) ; and c been accompanied by any prescribed fee. This clause applies to an application made under section 5A of the 1983 Act for the issue of a dealer’s licence that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under— a section 82 for a business licence if the application was made to carry on a dealer activity described in section 5(1)(a), (b), (c), (e), or (f) of the 1983 Act: b section 99 for a museum licence if the application was made to carry on a dealer activity described in section 5(1)(d) of the 1983 Act. A dealer’s licence issued under section 5B of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been surrendered or revoked is to be treated as— a a business licence issued under section 84 if the person is carrying on a business activity: b a museum licence issued under section 101 if the person is a senior manager or curator of a museum. Any conditions that the licence is subject to continue to apply as if the conditions had been imposed under this Act. The business licence or museum licence expires on the date specified in the licence. Nothing in subclause (3) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the suspension or revocation of a business licence or museum licence. This clause applies to an application made under section 23 of the 1983 Act for the issue of a firearms licence that— a was made by a visitor before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 121 . A firearms licence issued to a visitor under section 24 of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been surrendered or revoked is to be treated as a visitor licence issued under section 124 for 1 visit to New Zealand. Any conditions that the licence is subject to continue to apply as if the conditions had been imposed under this Act. The licence expires on the date specified in the licence. Nothing in subclause (3) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the suspension or revocation of a visitor licence. This clause applies to a firearms licence holder who— a sold or supplied ammunition before the commencement date; and b continues to sell or supply ammunition on and after the commencement date; and c does not hold, or is not treated as holding, a business licence. The firearms licence holder is to be treated as an approved ammunition seller during the period— a commencing on the commencement date; and b ending on the later of the following dates: i the specified date: ii if, before the close of the specified date, the firearms licence holder has made an application under section 171 to be an approved ammunition seller, the date on which that application is determined by the chief executive. In this clause, specified date means 22 February 2028. An application under section 171 to be an approved ammunition seller may not be made earlier than 23 July 2027. Subclause (2) applies to an application under section 29 of the 1983 Act for an endorsement on a licence in respect of a pistol or restricted weapon that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 183 or 184 . Subclause (4) applies to an application under section 30A of the 1983 Act for an endorsement on a licence in respect of a prohibited firearm or prohibited magazine that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 183 or 184 for an endorsement on a licence in respect of a restricted firearm or restricted magazine. An endorsement on a licence made under section 30 or 30B of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been revoked is to be treated as an endorsement on a licence made under section 185 . Any conditions that the endorsement is subject to continue to apply as if they had been imposed by or under this Act. The endorsement continues in force for the period specified in section 190 . Nothing in subclause (3) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the revocation of an endorsement. This clause applies during the period— a commencing on the commencement date; and b ending on 22 February 2028. For the purposes of section 189(2)(c) , separate address means— a the address of another person who is— i a licence holder whose licence bears an endorsement permitting possession of a restricted firearm; and ii approved by the chief executive; or b the address of a facility that the chief executive has approved as providing appropriate storage for the vital part. This clause applies during the period— a commencing on the commencement date; and b ending on 22 February 2028. Despite section 190(1) , an endorsement on a firearms licence held by an animal and biosecurity controller continues in force until the earlier of the following dates: a the date that is 2 years and 6 months after the date on which the endorsement was made: b the date on which the licence— i is surrendered or revoked; or ii expires. Subclause (2) applies to an application made under the 1983 Act for a permit to import an item that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 193 . A permit to import issued under section 18, 18AA, or 18AAB of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been revoked is to be treated as a permit to import issued under section 193, 194, or 195 . The permit to import continues in force for the period specified in section 200 . Nothing in subclause (2) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the revocation of a permit to import. This clause applies during the period— a commencing on the commencement date; and b ending on 22 February 2028. A permit to import may be issued only in relation to items that are to be brought into, or sent to, New Zealand— a in a single consignment at the same time; or b in multiple consignments, with a period of not more than 30 days between the arrival of the first and last consignments. If, after the issue of a permit to import referred to in subsection (2) , any item to which the permit relates is not included in a consignment referred to in subsection (2) , the permit ceases to apply in relation to that item. Subclause (2) applies to an application made under the 1983 Act for a permit to possess an item that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made under section 204 . A permit to possess issued under section 35, 35AAA, or 35A of the 1983 Act that has not expired or been revoked is to be treated as a permit to possess issued under section 205, 206, or 207 . The permit to possess continues in force for the period specified in the permit. Nothing in subclause (2) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the revocation of a permit to possess. This clause applies to an application under section 38D of the 1983 Act for a certificate of approval in respect of a pistol shooting club that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made to the chief executive under section 211 . A certificate of approval issued to a pistol shooting club under section 38G of the 1983 Act that has not been surrendered or cancelled is to be treated as a certificate of approval issued under section 214 . Any conditions that the certificate of approval is subject to continue to apply as if the conditions had been imposed under this Act. Nothing in subclause (2) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the cancellation of the certificate of approval. This clause applies to an application under section 38M of the 1983 Act for enrolment in respect of a non-pistol shooting club that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made to the chief executive under section 220 . An enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club under section 38O of the 1983 Act that has not been cancelled is to be treated as an enrolment under section 222 . Nothing in subclause (1) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the cancellation of the enrolment. This clause applies to an application under section 38S of the 1983 Act for certification of a pistol shooting range that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made to the chief executive under section 226 . A certification issued in respect of a pistol shooting range under section 38V of the 1983 Act that has not been surrendered or cancelled is to be treated as a certification in respect of a pistol shooting range issued under section 229 . Any conditions that the certification is subject to continue to apply as if the conditions had been imposed under this Act. Nothing in subclause (2) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the cancellation of the certification. This clause applies to an application under section 38XE of the 1983 Act for enrolment in respect of a non-pistol shooting range that— a was made before the commencement date; but b was not determined before the commencement date. The application is to be determined under this Act as if the application had been made to the chief executive under section 236 . A non-pistol shooting range enrolled under section 38XH of the 1983 Act that has not been cancelled is to be treated as an enrolment under section 239 238 . Nothing in subclause (1) limits any provision of this Act that authorises the cancellation of the enrolment. This clause applies if, before the commencement date, the holder of a dealer’s licence— a has obtained under section 6B of the 1983 Act the Commissioner’s approval to manufacture pistols, restricted weapons, pistol carbine conversion kits, or air pistol carbine conversion kits; and b has commenced, but not completed, the manufacture of the pistols, restricted weapons, pistol carbine conversion kits, or air pistol carbine conversion kits. Section 65(2)(b) 65(3)(a) does not apply to the licence holder. A requirement under section 95(3) of the 1983 Act (to provide to the Police details for the registry in accordance with the requirements of the Arms Regulations 1992) that applies to a person before the commencement date applies to the person on and after the commencement date as a requirement under section 349(3) of this Act (to provide to the chief executive details for the registry in accordance with any prescribed requirements). A firearms licence holder in respect of whom no requirement under section 95(3) of the 1983 Act applies before the commencement date and in respect of whom no requirement under section 349(3) of this Act applies before 24 June 2028 must provide to the chief executive no later than 31 August 2028 such information as may be prescribed. A business licence holder or museum licence holder in respect of whom no requirement under section 95(3) of the 1983 Act applies before the commencement date (in their capacity as the holder of a dealer’s licence) and in respect of whom no requirement applies under section 349(3) of this Act before 1 January 2029 must provide to the chief executive no later than 24 June 2029 such information as may be prescribed. This clause applies in respect of information held by the Commissioner before the commencement date that was collected from a licensed dealer under section 12 of the 1983 Act ( licensed dealer information ). The Commissioner may, on and after the commencement date, retain all or any licensed dealer information and use that information only for a lawful purpose connected with a function, or an activity, of the Police. If, before the commencement date, the Commissioner commences, but does not complete, a matter, inquiry, or process in relation to the Commissioner’s functions under the 1983 Act, the chief executive must complete the matter, inquiry, or process that the Commissioner commenced. If, immediately before the commencement date, any notice given by the Commissioner in relation to the Commissioner’s functions under the 1983 Act is in force, the notice is to be treated as a notice given by the chief executive. Any proceedings commenced before the District Court under section 62B or 63 of the 1983 Act before the commencement date, but not completed by that date, must be continued and completed as if this Act had not been enacted. Proceedings may be commenced in the District Court under section 341 or 342 in respect of an action that occurred before the commencement date. The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the responsible Minister, make regulations prescribing transitional or savings provisions for the purpose of facilitating or ensuring the orderliness of the transition to this Act from the 1983 Act. The Minister may not recommend the making of regulations under this clause unless satisfied that the regulations— a are reasonably necessary for the purpose in subclause (1) ; and b are consistent with the purposes of this Act. The transitional or savings provisions prescribed by regulations made under subclause (1) may be provisions in addition to or instead of all other provisions of this schedule, and may— a provide that, for a transitional period, in any circumstances, or subject to any conditions, specified in the regulations, 1 or more provisions (including definitions) of this Act do not apply, or apply with modifications or additions: b provide that, for a transitional period, in any circumstances, or subject to any conditions, specified in the regulations, 1 or more provisions repealed or revoked by this Act are to continue to apply, or apply with modifications or additions, as if they had not been repealed or revoked: c provide for any other matter that is reasonably necessary for the purpose in subclause (1) . No regulations may be made, or continue in force, later than 2 years after the commencement date. No regulations may be made under this clause on or after 23 September 2028 . Any regulations made under this clause are revoked on 23 September 2028 . Regulations under this clause are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019 for publication requirements). 2 Consequential amendments Amendments to other legislation In section 2(1), definition of device , replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . Repeal section 7(4)(b). In section 14(1), replace section 16 of the Arms Act 1958 (which relates to the unlawful carriage or possession of firearms, ammunition, or explosives) with the Arms Act 2025 . In the heading to section 161, replace 1983 with 2025 . Replace section 161(1)(b) with: b sections 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 250, 252, 253, and 254 of the Arms Act 2025 . Repeal section 10(6)(b). In section 3(1), definition of firearm , replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 23(2), replace section 3(2)(a)(ii) of the Arms Act 1983 with section 13(3)(a)(v) of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 86(3), replace prohibited firearm with restricted firearm . In section 86(4)(a), replace section 24 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 70 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 2, definition of specified offence , replace paragraph (a)(i)(C) with: C sections 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, and 250 to 254 of the Arms Act 2025 ; and In section 2(1), replace the definition of firearm with: firearm means a firearm and permanently deactivated firearm , as those terms are that term is defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 In Schedule 1, Part 3, under the heading “ Arms Act 1983 ”, replace all of the items relating to the Arms Act 1983 with: The following table is small in size and has 2 columns. This table is an amendment to the table in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the Criminal Investigations (Bodily Samples) Act 1995 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. Arms Act 2025 Requirement for possession of standard firearm sections 14 Requirement for possession of blank-firing gun section 16 Requirement for possession of airgun section 18 Requirements for possession of pistol or restricted weapon section 20 Requirements for possession of restricted firearm section 31 Requirements for possession of restricted magazine section 34 Requirement Requirements for selling or suppling pistol or restricted weapon section 42 Requirements for selling or suppling restricted firearms or restricted magazines section 50 Requirement for importing firearms, etc section 55 Requirement for importing restricted ammunition section 56 Unlawfully carrying or possessing explosive Carrying or possessing restricted firearm, standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, restricted magazine, or explosive without lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose section 250 Unlawfully carrying or possessing restricted firearm, pistol, or restricted weapon in public place Carrying or possessing restricted firearm or restricted ammunition in public place without lawful purpose section 252 Unlawfully carrying or possessing standard firearm, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in public place Carrying or possessing any standard firearm, pistol, restricted weapon, airgun, ammunition, or explosive in public place without lawful purpose section 253 Carrying pistol, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, or restricted weapon without authority section 254 Carrying restricted firearm with criminal intent section 255 Carrying standard firearm, airgun, pistol, imitation firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive with criminal intent section 256 Using or attempting to use of restricted firearm or pistol to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence section 262 Using or attempting to use of standard firearm, etc, to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence section 263 Trafficking arms items or ammunition item, ammunition, or restricted ammunition section 265 Manufacturing or assembling arms items without authority section 266 Assembling restricted firearm section 269 Falsifying identification markings section 329 Removing or altering identification markings section 330 In section 19(3)(c), replace Arms Act 1983 and a Police employee with Arms Act 2025 and the chief executive of the Arms Regulator . In section 108(1)(ca), replace section 42A or 42B of the Arms Act 1983 with section 298 or 299 of the Arms Act 2025 . After section 101B(1)(a), insert: aa every offence against any of sections 73, 92, 106B, 114, 127, 265, 266, and 329 of the Arms Act 2025 : In section 8, replace the definition of firearms licence with: firearms licence — a means a firearms licence issued under section 70 of the Arms Act 2025 ; and b includes a visitor licence issued under section 124 of that Act In section 8, replace the definition of weapon with: weapon means any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 163(3), replace section 27 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 151 or 155 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 164(1)(b), replace subsections (2) to (4) of section 28 of the Arms Act 1983 with sections 157(2) and 162(1) and (2) of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 164(1)(b), replace under section 28 of the Arms Act 1983 with under section 157 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace section 164(1)(b) with: b if a person’s firearms licence is revoked under section 99 or 163(1) of this Act, then, subject to paragraph (c) of this subsection, sections 157(2), 162, and 164A(1) and (2) of the Arms Act 2025 apply, with all necessary modifications, as if the weapon were a firearm that had been delivered to an arms officer or a Police employee under section 157 of the Arms Act 2025 : In section 164(1)(c), replace Arms Act 1983, and sections 65 and 70 with Arms Act 2025 , and sections 337 and 338 . In the heading to section 165, replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 165(1), replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 165(2)(b), replace 1983 with 2025 . In the heading to section 176, replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 176(3), replace sections 27(1) and 27A of the Arms Act 1983 with section 151 or 155 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 4, definition of serious offence , replace paragraph (b)(i) with: i section 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 31, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 50, 53, 55, 56, 250, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 of the Arms Act 2025 ; or In section 4, definition of specified gang offender , paragraph (b)(i), replace section 39A of the Arms Act 1983 with section 289 of the Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 2, replace the last item with: The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table is an amendment to the table in Schedule 2 of the Intelligence and Security Act 2017 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. NZSIS Information about people and firearms collected in connection with the performance or exercise of a function, duty, or power under the Arms Act 2025 , to be used for the purpose of assisting the Arms Regulator in determining whether a person is a fit and proper person to possess firearms or airguns Arms Regulator In Schedule 4, Part 1, replace the item relating to the Arms Act 1983 with: This following table is small in size and has 2 columns. This table is an amendment to the table in Schedule 4 of the Legislation Act 2019 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. Arms Act 2025 363 In section 212, definition of unauthorised weapon , replace paragraph (b) with: b includes, in respect of an offence against the Arms Act 2025 or an imprisonable offence committed or about to be committed,— i a firearm, airgun, pistol, restricted firearm, restricted magazine, restricted weapon, or explosive, as those terms are defined in the Arms Act 2025 : ii any ammunition: iii any restricted ammunition. In section 2, definition of firearm , replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 56(1)(c), replace section 45 of the Arms Act 1983 with sections 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 250, 252, 253, and 254 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace section 20A(3)(b) with: b an offence against any of the following provisions of the Arms Act 2025 : i for trespass surveillance other than by means of a tracking device, section 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 31, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 50, 53, 55, 56, 250, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 : ii for surveillance by means of an interception device, section 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 36, 42, 50, 55, 56, 250, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 ; or In section 50A, definition of eligible offence , replace paragraph (b) with: b an offence that relates to the same or substantially similar conduct as an offence against any of the following provisions of the Arms Act 2025 : i for trespass surveillance other than by means of a tracking device, section 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 31, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 50, 53, 55, 56, 250, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 : ii for surveillance by means of an interception device, section 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 36, 42, 50, 55, 56, 250, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 ; or In Schedule 1, after item 32, insert: The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table amends Schedule 1 of the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 1992 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. 33 Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, done at New York on 31 May 2001 An offence against any of the following sections of the Arms Act 2025 : section subject matter 265 Offences relating to illegal trafficking of arms items or ammunition 266 Offences relating to illegal manufacturing of arms items 329 Offences relating to falsifying markings on arms items 330 Offences relating to removing or altering identification markings on arms items Replace section 163(2)(c) with: c the following sections of the Arms Act 2025 : i sections 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 250, 252, 253, and 254 (which relate to carrying or possessing arms items, except for a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose): ii section 251 (which relates to carrying an imitation firearm, except for a lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose); and In Schedule 4, under the heading Police records , repeal the item relating to firearms licences. In Schedule 4, under the heading Police records , item relating to firearms prohibition order, replace Arms Act 1983 with Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 4, after the last item, insert: The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table is an amendment to the table in Schedule 4 of the Privacy Act 2020 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. Arms Regulator records Subject Description Description available to Firearms licences Particulars of persons authorised to possess firearms in accordance with Arms Act 2025 Ministry of Justice (access is limited to identity details of persons who possess firearms, if that information is required for the purpose of serving orders made under the Family Violence Act 2018) Arms Regulator records The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. Columns 1, 2, and 3 are grouped under the heading Arms Regulator records. Column 1 is headed Subject. Column 2 is headed Description. Column 3 is headed Description available to. Subject Description Description available to Firearms licences Particulars of persons authorised to possess firearms in accordance with Arms Act 2025 Ministry of Justice (access is limited to identity details of persons who possess firearms, if that information is required for the purpose of serving orders made under the Family Violence Act 2018) In section 62(f)(i), replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 36(2)(c), replace 1983 with 2025 . In Schedule 2, insert in its appropriate alphabetical order: Arms Regulator In section 3(1), replace the definition of arms with: arms means any arms item, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, imitation firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive (as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 ) In section 18, replace 1983 with 2025 in each place. In section 18AA(3), replace Part 7A of the Arms Act 1983 with subpart 9 of Part 6 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace section 45(1)(b) with: b against section 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 31, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 50, 53, 55, 56, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 of the Arms Act 2025 ; or Replace section 45(2)(b) with: b against section 14, 16, 18, 20, 31, 34, 36, 42, 50, 55, 56, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 256, 262, 263, 269, 298, or 299 ; or In section 48(2)(d)(i), replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 111A(1), replace Part 7A of the Arms Act 1983 with subpart 9 of Part 6 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace section 111A(2) with: 2 In this section, specified offender means an offender described in section 289(1) or (2) of the Arms Act 2025 . In section 8(1), replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 3, replace Part 2 with: 2 Offences in Arms Act 2025 The following table is small in size and has 2 columns. Column 1 is headed Provision of Arms Act 2025. Column 2 is headed Subject matter. Provision of Arms Act 2025 Subject matter 255 Carrying restricted firearm with criminal intent 256 Carrying standard firearm, airgun, pistol, imitation firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive with criminal intent 262 Using or attempting to use restricted firearm or pistol to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence 263 Using or attempting to use of standard firearm, etc, to resist or prevent arrest or commit offence In section 2(1), definition of infringement notice , after paragraph (jm), insert: jn section 276 of the Arms Act 2025 ; or In Schedule 2, replace the item relating to the Arms Act 1983 with: Arms Act 2025 , to the extent that it deals with any requirement described in section 10(2) applicable to the sale of any item for which a licence or permit is required under the Arms Act 2025 Replace section 9(1)(b) with: b give the number of their firearms licence or visitor licence issued under the Arms Act 2025 if the person is in possession of a firearm. In section 12(1)(a) and (2), replace 1983 with 2025 . In section 4, definition of firearm , replace paragraph (a) with: a has the same meaning as in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 ; but In section 17(1), replace section 48 of the Arms Act 1983, or any other enactment except section 47 of the said Act, shall prevent with section 259 of the Arms Act 2025 , or any other enactment except section 270 of that Act, prevents . In regulation 8(3), definition of blunt force , replace section 2(1) of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In the Schedule, Part 1, item relating to New Zealand firearms licence, replace New Zealand Police with Arms Regulator . Replace clause 4(2)(a) with: a has the consent of the Arms Regulator (as defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 ); and Replace rule 20.13(1)(d) with: d sections 337, 341, and 342 of the Arms Act 2025 : In regulation 3(f), replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace rule 309(1)(c) with: c if the application is for a protection order, a notice , on an approved form , setting out information for the Police about— i licences issued under the Arms Act 2025 ; and ii weapons. Replace rule 325(2)(b) with: b in the case of a protection order made available to the District Commander under section 174(1) of the Act, a copy of the notice filed under rule 309(1) (c) . In Schedule 5, form FV 4, clause 1, paragraph D, after firearms licence , insert or visitor licence in each place. In Schedule 5, form FV 4, clause 1, paragraph D, replace the first note with: Note : The Family Violence Act 2018 defines a weapon as any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . ( See sections 8 and 37 of the Family Violence Act 2018.) In Schedule 5, form FV 6, clause 1, paragraph D, after firearms licence , insert or visitor licence in each place. In Schedule 5, form FV 6, clause 1, paragraph D, replace the first note with: Note : The Family Violence Act 2018 defines a weapon as any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 2, form 1, clause 5, paragraph B, replace the note with: Note : Weapon means any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 2, form 7, clause 1, paragraph D, replace the note with: Note : The Family Violence Act 2018 defines a weapon as any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace regulation 4(a) with: a any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 : In regulation 3(1), definition of member of the New Zealand Police , paragraph (b), replace 1983 with 2025 . In regulation 3(1), definition of member of the New Zealand Police , replace paragraph (c) with: c authorised by or under the Arms Act 2025 to exercise powers under that Act In regulation 9.2, revoke the definition of firearms dealer’s licence . In regulation 9.2, replace the definition of firearms licence with: firearms licence means a licence issued under section 70 of the Arms Act 2025 In regulation 9.2, insert in their appropriate alphabetical order: business licence means a business licence issued under section 84 of the Arms Act 2025 visitor licence means a licence issued under section 124 of the Arms Act 2025 Replace regulation 9.5(3) with: 3 Despite subclause (1), the holder of a firearms licence, business licence, or visitor licence may possess less than 15 kg of black powder (gunpowder) UN0027. Replace regulation 9.6(2) with: 2 Despite subclause (1), the holder of a firearms licence, business licence, or visitor licence may possess less than 15 kg of a substance described in table 3 in Schedule 7. Replace regulation 9.8(2) with: 2 Despite subclause (1), a PCBU may supply no more than 15 kg of the following substances to the holder of a firearms licence, business licence, or visitor licence: a black powder (gunpowder) UN0027: b a substance described in table 3 in Schedule 7. In Schedule 7, table 2, replace firearms licence with firearms licence or visitor licence . In Schedule 7, in the table 3 heading, replace or firearms dealer’s licence with visitor licence, or business licence . In Schedule 1, item relating to regulation 9.6(1) of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, replace firearms dealer’s licence with business licence, visitor licence, . In rule 11(4)(d), replace 1983 with 2025 . In rule 7.21, replace section 2 of the Arms Act 1983 with section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . Replace regulation 10(1)(d) with: d a firearms licence issued under section 70 of the Arms Act 2025 . In regulation 4B(1), replace licensed dealer with licensed business . Replace regulation 4B(2) with: 2 In this regulation, firearm and licensed business have the same meanings as in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In the Schedule, form 11AA, clause 1, paragraph D, after firearms licence , insert or visitor licence in each place. In the Schedule, form 11AA, clause 1, paragraph D, replace the first note with: Note : The Family Violence Act 2018 defines a weapon as any arms item, exempt airgun, exempt standard firearm, exempt pistol, permanently deactivated firearm, ammunition, restricted ammunition, or explosive, as those terms are defined in section 5 of the Arms Act 2025 . In Schedule 2, replace the last item with: The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table amends Schedule 2 of the Intelligence and Security Act 2017 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. NZSIS Information about people and firearms collected in connection with the performance or exercise of a function, duty, or power under the Arms Act 2025 Arms Regulator After section 101B(5)(a), insert: aa every offence against any of sections 73, 92, 106B, 114, 127, 265, 266, and 329 of the Arms Act 2025 : In section 101B(5), insert in its appropriate alphabetical order: firearms protocol means the Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, their Parts and Components and Ammunition, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, done at New York on 31 May 2001 In section 101B(5), definition of foreign country , paragraph (b), after (as the case may be) , insert the firearms protocol . In Schedule 1, after item 32, insert: The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table amends Schedule 1 of the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 1992 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. 33 Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, done at New York on 31 May 2001 An offence against any of the following sections of the Arms Act 2025 : section subject matter 265 Offences relating to illegal trafficking of arms items, ammunition, or restricted ammunition 266 Offences relating to illegal manufacturing of arms items 329 Offences relating to falsifying identification markings on items 330 Offences relating to removing or altering identification markings on items

Hansard

July 21, 2026

Arms Bill — Second Reading · Full day report

Second Reading Hon NICOLE McKEE (Associate Minister of Justice) (15:53): I move, That the Arms Bill be now read a second time. At the first reading, I said that public safety and respect for licensed firearm owners is not in conflict, that they actually depend on each other, and the select committee process has reinforced that point. More than 8,000 submissions were made on this bill, and that followed almost 8,500 submissions received during the Ministry of Justice’s public consultation in 2025. Thousands of licensed firearm owners, firearms businesses, clubs, rangers, hunters, pest controllers, collectors, museums, gunsmiths, and other New Zealanders took the time to engage with this legislation. They read the bill. They considered how it would operate in practice. They identified problems, suggested improvements, and shared decades of collective experience. They were heard. Many of their suggestions are now reflected in the bill reported back to this House. That is how law should be made—with clear heads, proper consultation, and respect for the people who will have to live and work under it. It is a stark contrast to the approach taken after 2019, when Labour rushed through sw…
Read full Hansard debate
Second Reading Hon NICOLE McKEE (Associate Minister of Justice) (15:53): I move, That the Arms Bill be now read a second time. At the first reading, I said that public safety and respect for licensed firearm owners is not in conflict, that they actually depend on each other, and the select committee process has reinforced that point. More than 8,000 submissions were made on this bill, and that followed almost 8,500 submissions received during the Ministry of Justice’s public consultation in 2025. Thousands of licensed firearm owners, firearms businesses, clubs, rangers, hunters, pest controllers, collectors, museums, gunsmiths, and other New Zealanders took the time to engage with this legislation. They read the bill. They considered how it would operate in practice. They identified problems, suggested improvements, and shared decades of collective experience. They were heard. Many of their suggestions are now reflected in the bill reported back to this House. That is how law should be made—with clear heads, proper consultation, and respect for the people who will have to live and work under it. It is a stark contrast to the approach taken after 2019, when Labour rushed through sweeping changes with next to no meaningful consultation, treated licensed firearm owners as though they were the problem, and imposed layer upon layer of regulation that did little to address the real risks. The result is the fragmented, confusing, and often unworkable Arms Act which we have today. This bill replaces that mess with a modern, coherent, and enduring regulatory framework. I’d like to acknowledge the Justice Committee. The committee worked through a large and technically complex bill. They considered thousands of submissions and approached the issues constructively across party lines. I want to acknowledge that every change that has been recommended by the committee was agreed unanimously. I’d like to thank the members of the committee, the officials who supported them, and every person who submitted. I want to especially acknowledge the chair, the Hon Andrew Bayly, who I believe has done an exceptional job. His fair-minded chairing and willingness to ensure that every member and submitter was properly heard helped the committee consider the legislation constructively, and we will have a much better law as a result of that, so I thank him for the considerable time and effort that he has put into this bill. I’d also like to acknowledge the Ministry of Justice officials and, also, the Parliamentary Counsel Office, because, as I just mentioned, this is a technically complicated bill that they’ve all had to get their heads around. I will now detail some key changes in the bill. The bill as introduced provided an exemption from the requirement to obtain a permit to possess or immediately record a transfer in the firearms registry when a restricted firearm was left with a licensed business, such as a gunsmith, for repair or for modification. That exemption originally applied for seven days, but submitters told the committee that seven days was often insufficient where parts needed to be ordered, or specialist gun work was required, or businesses had existing workloads. The reality is we do not have gunsmiths in every town. In fact, we have very few of them, so their work programme is absolutely huge and often not able to be completed within seven days. The committee listened and they recommended extending the period from seven days to 21 days, and that is a practical change that reduces unnecessary paperwork without weakening public safety. The committee also recommended extending multi-entry visitor licences from 12 to up to 18 months. This will provide greater flexibility for people who return to New Zealand for annual events such as duck shooting, the roar, or even sporting competitions, particularly when the dates of those events do not fall neatly within the same 12-month period. The committee has made important improvements for museums and their employees. As an example, museum worker licences will now align with the duration of a standard firearms licence. Museums preserve an important part of New Zealand’s military, sporting, technological, and social history. Their staff should be subject to sensible safeguards, but they should not face rules designed for entirely different circumstances. The committee also recommended removing the mid-term check-in requirements for pest controllers who hold restricted firearm endorsements. Instead, those licence holders will be required to notify the regulator when there is a relevant change in their circumstances. Other changes will now allow firearms licences to be temporarily suspended outside of normal business hours when urgent action is necessary, such as situations involving family violence or a risk that someone may harm themselves or another person. The committee has also recommended a clear commencement timetable, with most provisions of the bill, along with the regulations, coming into force on 23 September 2026. Other provisions commence progressively as the new regulator and supporting systems are established. The bill will be fully enforced by 23 February 2028. Despite the constructiveness on the Justice Committee, it is disappointing that I hear that Labour has chosen to hang its opposition on the bill partly on the creation of an independent firearms regulator: Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand. The regulator will be independent of police and focused on clear, consistent, efficient, and transparent administration of the licensing system. That separation allows the regulator to focus on licensing, education, on compliance and service, while police focus on gangs, criminals, and illegally held firearms. The Police are an enforcement agency. They investigate crime, they arrest offenders, and respond to immediate threats. Those are vital responsibilities. This change creates clearer responsibilities, stronger accountability, and greater trust among the people being regulated. It is also disappointing that Labour has attempted to build opposition to the bill around push-button firearms. These firearms are not new; they’ve been lawfully used in New Zealand for a long time and are completely different from restricted, semi-automatic firearms, which automatically load the next round after a shot has been fired. Conflating the two may be politically convenient, but it is technically wrong. I hope that after hearing thousands of submissions—and, after all, members of the select committee did agree unanimously on the recommended improvements—that the bill would continue to receive unanimous support. It is regrettable that this may no longer be the case, but the Government will continue with the work. For too long, licensed firearm owners have felt that Governments were prepared to talk about them, but not actually listen to them. This Government has listened. We consulted before the bill was introduced. We invited submissions where a full six-month process was undertaken, and their submissions were carefully considered, and changes were made as a result. Farmers, hunters, competitive shooters—and I’ll do a shout-out here for the New Zealand F-class rifle team, who are about to go to Bisley to shoot in the world championships—pest controllers, firearms businesses, gunsmiths, clubs, ranges, collectors, museums, and hundreds of thousands of licensed firearm owners contribute to New Zealand’s economy, our environment, our communities, and our heritage. I again thank every submitter who took the time to share their views and their expertise, and I commend this bill to the House. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): The question is that the motion be agreed to. Hon GINNY ANDERSEN (Labour) (16:02): Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. What a long and winding road it has been along the journey of the Arms Bill. If we cast our memories back to the beginning of this parliamentary term, we can remember what was promised by Nicole McKee and the ACT Party with these reforms. What was promised was the deregulation of military-style semi-automatic weapons—those that were prohibited after March 15th and Christchurch—for them to be potentially used in competitions on firing ranges. So that was one of the promises of what this legislation would do. The second promise that was made was to remove or disestablish the Firearms Registry—to take out A-category weapons and to, effectively, weaken what has been quite an effective tool in registering New Zealand’s firearms. The third one was to remove the Firearms Safety Authority—or, as it was known, Te Tari Pūreke—from within Police. Those were the main promises. So in terms of delivery on those promises, we see that military-style semi-automatics (MSSAs)—those prohibited weapons—continue to be prohibited in New Zealand. Here in Labour, we commend the National Party on holding your coalition partner to account on keeping those dangerous weapons off New Zealand’s streets. Secondly, the Firearms Registry—even though the Minister herself has said that she doesn’t trust the Firearms Registry and she won’t be registering her own firearms with them—it still continues to be going well. The review undertaken by the Minister has shown that the Firearms Registry is working effectively and is an excellent tool for tracking weapons and making sure that we can keep on top of straw purchasing—it’s working very well. So that’s a second one that hasn’t been completed from the promises. The third promise was that the Firearms Safety Authority would be removed from Police, such as in Canada, where it didn’t function so well after taking out. That is where we’ve seen a Clayton’s result—a half-tick on that one—because while it’s hosted by Police, it’s not being removed from Police; we’re having these sort of pseudo-efforts at giving the effects of removing “blue shirts”, as the Minister refers to them as, or “authorised police constables” from having decision-making abilities within this new entity that’s been created by this. So there are three main promises: MSSAs, firearms registry, and the FSA being removed from Police. None of those have really been delivered upon. So, largely, a lot of the talk and the posturing around encouraging submissions and engaging with the firearms community has been to try and sell what is largely not delivering upon the promises that were outlaid at the very outset of this parliamentary term. But it’s important to note that while there haven’t been all of those changes that we were fearful of happening, some of the changes that are contained within this legislation are really concerning for public safety. So while the Minister at the beginning of her speech framed this up as saying that public safety and the interests of licensed firearm holders can go hand in hand, the telltale feature of where there’s some conflict there is the role of New Zealand Police. Because us in Labour, we believe that the New Zealand Police have a fundamental role in making sure that firearms are managed safely. We believe that Police have a key role in decision making and understanding how safety and public safety around firearms can be managed in New Zealand; primarily because they are on the front line. They are the people that will be the first in many instances to be dealing with firearms in the community, whether they be legal or illegal. So it’s very important that not only the Police Association but the Police Service themselves feel comfortable with the changes that are being made. When they are not comfortable, that is a strong indication that public safety is not at the heart of this bill, and that is what I believe. To be honest, also, I really did think that the police Minister would have stepped in and had more of a say around the fact that police officers who have office of the constable are being prohibited from having decision-making ability within the newly established Firearms Safety Authority, which now has a different name. So even though there’s been a large fail on those three promises, we still have those concerns. I’m going to spend the rest of my speech outlying what those concerns are. The first one is implementation: that this bill still has a commencement date of September. We believe that that’s an unrealistic date—that there is a significant new legislative regime. When we look at the size of this bill, it’s a big bill. That’s happening at the same time as a significant organisational restructure. There are key operational risks. We still don’t know some of those details. We’ve been asking those questions in select committee, and some of those details have not yet been spelled out in detail. So what are those processes that are in place to ensure public safety and to make sure that police get real-time intelligence? We’ve not been able to have a really clear understanding. We know that the interface with having these paper walls around the new entity, even though it’s hosted in Police, that police can’t kind of get in there. How is that going to operate if front-line police officers are attending a call-out where someone has been flagged with a risk of having firearms or being at risk of being potentially dangerous, not only to police officers but to the general public? Can we get a guarantee that that intelligence will be available in real time to police officers when attending those jobs? Because that’s not clear from the questions that we’ve asked at select committee. Even the police themselves have raised this question about how it will work in practice. It says here under their submission—the New Zealand Police Association submission—“While independence in licensing decisions is commendable, the association is concerned that this legislation will create a regulator that is operationally detached from frontline realities. The ‘no blue shirts’ dictate for the regulator risks a weakening of the direct link between intelligence, enforcement, and licensing, and a slowing down or complication of information-sharing.” This is a key risk. So while the Minister is stating that this bill is improving public safety around firearms, the police officers are saying, “No it’s not.” That is a cause of concern. They go on to state that “Any artificial separation of these safety imperatives has the potential to impede public safety rather than enhance it.” So where is the police Minister on this when police officers themselves are concerned that these changes will reduce public safety around firearms? I will just go on to quote one more section, because it’s important. It states, “The proposed structure of the Firearms Safety Authority (FSA) and the firearms regulator will create a triangular reporting command structure between Police, the FSA, and the regulator’s management and employees, and it is unclear how this will work in practice.” All this is going to be implemented on 23 September. It’s a real concern that those details are still not clear and Police themselves are also not clear. There’s another question in terms of implementation, and that is: what training will need to be undertaken? Police will need training before the regime comes into force. Also, what about licence holders? What information will be made available, as well, to make sure those people are informed if this is coming into force? Overall, the process around this has been really concerning. We know there’s been quite a bit of public commentary around the Minister’s appointment process to key advisory groups where we’ve had members of the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners (COLFO) appointed in there not following due process. We know that the Minister has gone on to Facebook and given information that was specific to the Justice Committee first to the COLFO website on Facebook before members of the public had access to that information, so there was preferential treatment of information being given to closed forums before that was made available. Hon Nicole McKee: Point of order. There’s an accusation that’s just been made that I supplied confidential information to the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners. I did not. I would like that retracted, thank you. If you have some proof of that, please table it. Hon Ginny Andersen: Speaking to the point of order. I’m happy to provide to the House an example of where there was information giving detail around the changes to this bill before the select committee had reported back to this House, and that information was given by the Minister on her Facebook page to COLFO, and I’m happy to provide that to the House. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): Just a second. I’ll just take some advice. I’ll invite the member to complete her speech, but we’ll have some information at the end of your speech—just to give the Clerks some time. Thank you. Hon Ginny Andersen: Thank you very much. I’d like to conclude by saying that if this really is about public safety, then all New Zealanders deserve to have that information—all New Zealanders—at the same time. It’s important that we all have trust and confidence that these changes will in fact make New Zealand safer, and so while I am relieved, personally, that we do not have MSSAs being made more readily available, that we still have a strong and functioning firearms registry, and that Police have still housed the Firearms Safety Authority, we are concerned that it will significantly weaken what has been a really strong public safety approach from the changes that were put into place post - 17 March in New Zealand. We are really concerned, in terms of police officers having real-time intel to be able to respond to firearm safety concerns in New Zealand, that this legislation weakens that. We use, as a clear example of that, the words of the New Zealand Police Association themselves who are concerned about this. This has been, largely, a PR exercise— ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): The member’s time has expired. Just before I take the next call, I’m going to take some advice from the Clerks, who are writing frantically to get it to me. The member has raised a matter of disclosing confidential committee proceedings. It is a matter of privilege, and there are other channels for raising matters of privilege, so I invite the member to raise it not in a debate but through the appropriate process. Hon Ginny Andersen: Sure. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): OK. SCOTT WILLIS (Green) (16:14): Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to speak to this bill and also mention the good work, as the Minister has, of the Justice Committee. I thank the 8,000-plus submitters who really did participate thoroughly in this bill and expressed a great diversity of opinion but were very, very helpful in helping us work through how this bill should shape up. I’m very pleased, as my colleague has just mentioned, to see that the arms registry is retained. Of course, after 40 years, with lots of amendments, the Arms Act did need updating, but we also have to consider what we would do if we had the majority and if we were able to make the changes that we want. For that reason, we have expressed our opposition to this bill because of the establishment of a statutory regulator separate from the Police—no sworn police officers. That’s, essentially, the problem we see with this bill. I think it expresses the danger of the Minister listening to small lobby groups, essentially, because unless the Minister in question is a member of such lobby groups, like the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners, which represents less than 5 percent of the 2,200 licensed firearm owners, or other groups like Kiwi Gun Blog—lovely people!—who have referred to me as a “small dick tree-hugger”—this is something that I think we really don’t need. We don’t need that type of discussion for such serious legislation. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): Can I also suggest that you keep the language parliamentary. Scott Willis: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I’m simply quoting, but— ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): You didn’t say it was a quote. Scott Willis: My apologies; it was a quote. I’ve been a licensed gun owner for about 40 years—I’m trying to remember whether it’s more or slightly less; I think it’s a little bit more. I remember buying a rifle on Trade Me quite some years ago, and it got delivered to my property, to my home. No one was home at the time, and it was dropped at the back door. I was quite surprised—I was obviously pleased that the rifle that I had purchased had been delivered—but it had been left at my back door where anyone walking past could have picked it up and walked off with it. I reflected, at that point, that nobody knew what firearms I had. I reflected that if it’s that easy for firearms to be delivered, how on earth do we know what’s happening in our community? Personally, I was very pleased when the gun registry was developed. How crazy has it been that, for so long, we have not known what firearms are out there in the community. That gives me great comfort for the firearms registry to know what firearms I have but for most firearms to be known and to be documented. And yet we have had the success of the firearms registry. We’ve had Hugh Devereux-Mack from the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners (COLFO) saying that COLFO members do not trust the Police, and that’s why an independent statutory regulator is needed that excludes the Police. I’m a licensed firearm owner. I trust the Police, and I am disturbed to see organisations that represent such a small proportion of licensed firearm owners having such a big impact on our legislation. Clearly, there are small groups of licensed firearm owners who distrust the Police. The Council of Licensed Firearms Owners are that small group. Perhaps the people who belong to the Kiwi Gun Blog are that group. We know that social media can amplify niche perspectives or that groups can be mouthpieces for niche concerns. They might not represent a large perspective of views, but they certainly seem to have driven policy. The thing is, we know that the National Rifle Association in the US uses very similar tactics—very similar tactics—to boost gun sales, but also to fight any restrictions on gun ownership. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): Can you come back to this bill, Mr Willis, please, and this country. SCOTT WILLIS: Yes, certainly, Madam Speaker. What I would like to talk about is the situation we find ourselves in. Let’s see; we’ve had the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners talking about the declining trust and confidence within the community: “Police are very rapidly declining trust and confidence within the community they’re supposed to be regulating since 2019, when they stopped looking at licensed firearms owners as law-abiding people and started viewing us as potential criminals.” They’ve accused the police as having standover and bullying tactics. The New Zealand Police Association were opposed to the creation of a regulator that is operationally detached from front-line realities. If I could quote from their submission, they said, “This legislation will create a regulator that’s operationally detached from front-line realities. The ‘no blue shirts’ dictate for the regulator risks weakening the direct link between intelligence, enforcement, and licensing, and a slowing down or complication of information sharing.” I think that point’s really, really important if we are thinking about safety, if we’re thinking about how we keep our communities safe. That’s what is at the heart of our opposition to this bill. It is clear that if we are taking the responsibility outside of the police, we’re taking away that relationship, we are ensuring there are no blue shirts, there are no sworn police officers who are a part of it, we’re breaking that link that allowed the information sharing and allowed the clear intelligence to flow, and I am particularly concerned with that. Our opposition is largely in respect to that component. We are also concerned with the additional cost that this is imposing for the set-up of a new regulator outside of the Police. It’s something like $45 million with additional contingency—we don’t know how much—for some information technology changes that is part of doing something that we see is completely unnecessary, and will not increase safety and may well decrease community safety. We’ve had—let’s see—a concern expressed during the submissions that intelligence sharing is relying on those informal relationships; they’ll be weakened through the set-up of a new organisation. We’ve also heard that this is all going to be done by 23 September this year; it looks as though it’s completely unrealistic. Our concern is really about the way in which this legislation—although we’re quite happy with many of the changes that have happened and we’re certainly pleased to see some of the more extreme elements have been taken out, as my colleague referred to, we are concerned that a small group of people have been able to drive legislation and drive one particular part of legislation which will not increase safety in our community and will lead to an increase in insecurity. That is why we are opposed to this bill as it sits now, but we do think, despite 40 years of the original bill and many amendments, when this bill passes, there will be amendments and we will see further change, and we will see a return to the Police of a regulator to make sure that our communities can be kept safe. So, Madam Speaker, thank you for managing our way through this bill, and I just simply want to finish with— ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): The member’s time has expired. CATHERINE WEDD (National—Tukituki) (16:24): Look, I rise to support this bill because this bill is about ensuring responsible ownership of firearms while strengthening public safety. This bill will keep firearms out of criminals’ hands, which is a very positive thing. I was really interested in the gang membership clauses that ensure that gang membership is an automatic disqualifying factor for holding a firearms licence, which will keep our communities safer, but it is also making compliance easier for licensed, responsible firearms owners. As we’ve heard already, we have a lot of responsible firearms licence holders from our hunters, from our pest controllers, to our professional shooters. This is about modernising the regulatory system, so I commend this bill to the House. Hon CASEY COSTELLO (Associate Minister of Police) (16:25): I rise on behalf of New Zealand First to speak on the Arms Bill. If you can indulge me for one moment, I would like to absolutely applaud that the Green Party is advocating for the rights of the police and their trust in them, which is incredible, given that one of their members believes it’s more like walking down the street with a gang member than a police officer. It’s encouraging that they now have great faith in the police, and maybe they won’t keep advocating for defunding them. Back to the bill, Madam Speaker— ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): Good idea. Hon CASEY COSTELLO: —firstly, I applaud the Minister for the hard work in advocating “broadly with New Zealanders”. Conversely to what the other side of the House has said, she has had a very open-door policy, a very robust select committee process, and has engaged broadly with all of those that are impacted by this legislation. This is a complex bill; there is no doubt about it. It is complex because it deals with a range of things, including the use, carriage, and licensing of firearms, shifting firearms into an authority in a managed process, unlike what has been alluded to in the House, that this is going to occur in September this year. It is a managed process and it is complex. The investment that needs to be made into this programme of work would have needed to be made whether it was continuing within the police environment or under a new authority. This is practical legislation that is managing public safety at its core and ensuring that all of those who use firearms for a range of reasons have the legal protections to do so within the realms of the law, and those who do not comply with the law or have any illegal intentions will be better managed through proper legislation that has clarified the clauses, that has made it easier to manage and navigate, easier to prosecute criminals, and absolutely greater visibility over who owns firearms. It is a positive step forward around a piece of legislation that has long been overdue for reform. It is an effective piece of legislation that will continue to ensure public safety is at its core, while respecting those lawful gun owners and enabling them to have possession of firearms, to do the recreational and sport activity that comes with that, and work that relates to that firearms activity. It is a positive step forward for this Government. It has been a massive piece of work. I applaud the Justice Committee on the effort that they did to ensure that the amendments were put forward, and I commend the bill to the House. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Maureen Pugh): This is a split call. I call Lawrence Xu-Nan. Dr LAWRENCE XU-NAN (Green) (16:28): Thank you, Madam Speaker. As we heard from my colleague Scott Willis, the Green Party does not support this bill, but I do want to acknowledge the work that the Justice Committee did on this particular bill. As I was working through, as members have seen from the commentary of this bill, while the Greens oppose this bill, we do support some of the amendments that have been adopted by the select committee that overall improve the bill. I also want to acknowledge my colleague Scott Willis for shepherding this bill through the select committee process on behalf of the Green Party, as probably one of our only members who himself has experience with firearms as a firearm licence holder. Now, as members of this House would know, I am more old school. Firearms are not for me. I prefer a bow and arrow—recurve, not compound; thank you. But there are a couple of things that I want to address in terms of this bill. The first one, as my colleague Scott Willis mentioned, is around the concerns of the role of the police within this particular organisation. I heard the previous speaker, the Hon Casey Costello, in terms of the fact that the Greens seem to be loving and hating the police at the same time, but, at the same time, I would say to that political party that they seem to be loving India and hating India at the same time. Politics is complex, and how we feel about a particular agency and the work that an agency does is also complex. In terms of this bill and the role of the police, it is concerning that they are under this new, independent regulator and there will be no sworn police officers from here. I do want to reiterate the Police Association’s concern around the fact that this legislation creates the potential for a weakening of connections between intelligence, enforcement, and licensing by excluding sworn police officers from the regulatory agency. This will be quite important later on, and I want to mention why that potentially can be quite crucial when we are looking at checks and balances. However, I am pleased to see that through the select committee stage, additional clauses have been added in that allow for some of those checks and balances, particularly around the role of the Independent Police Conduct Authority and the Ministry of Justice, when it comes to this idea of scrutiny of the regulator, in this case. I think that is an important move in terms of the application of the Independent Police Conduct Authority when it comes to the chief executive. While noting that the employees are employees of the New Zealand Police, the chief executive isn’t part of the scrutiny process, and I think that does help in providing some consistency to the overall purpose and principles of this bill, which is important to see. I did mention that it does create an interesting sort of bureaucratic conundrum where, on the one hand, we have an independent regulator, but on the other hand, we still have Te Tari Pūreke—the Firearms Safety Authority— and also, I believe, the registry sitting under the police. So whether this is actually going to have the intended effect of allowing for that communication across various groups is something that we will just have to see once this is implemented. Like we say, we do have some concerns at this stage with the bill as drafted, and so we will have further questions for the Minister during the committee stage, I’m sure. The other concern that we have is around some of the definitions. Again, this is something that was addressed through the select committee, and this is something that, as part of the Regulations Review Committee, we have concerns about in terms of the way that the definition of “restricted firearm” could be set under regulations, particularly when we were looking at things like semi-automatic rifles. A new clause has been added, clause 364A, which is also just wanting to close that loop of consultation, etc., with the police and with the relevant organisations. I want to mention that the reason we did see quite sudden changes is because with the way that we were looking at an ever-fractured society and the way that we look at the aftermath of the Christchurch massacre, it is important for us to remember that there are actual families who are affected by all of this—particularly I’m looking at the ethnic communities and the Muslim communities, who have been affected by some of these changes. So I think it’s important that for any changes we do see—and I’m hoping that new clause 364A will cover that—there will be consultation with ethnic communities, as those communities have previously been affected. So we don’t support this, but we are interested in engaging further during the committee stage. Thank you, Mr Speaker. KATIE NIMON (National—Napier) (16:33): I’m really pleased to see some of these really pragmatic changes, and it’s something that we’ve been talking about for quite a few years now. There are some amazing local clubs that really have the best interests of everyone in their community in mind. They’re not criminals, and so to have this moved away from the police—which we’ve talked about for a really long time—makes that step to identify that they are doing the right thing, and those that aren’t can then be policed accordingly. Not treating all people that have firearms as criminals is really important, and so, with that, I commend the bill to the House. Hon NICOLE McKEE (Minister for Courts) (16:34): Point of order, Mr Speaker. Thank you, Mr Speaker. The member Ginny Andersen has made false claims about me in this House that she has been unable to substantiate. The previous Speaker in the Chair rightly suggested that if she has concerns relating to a matter of privilege, there is a process for raising those, but, as it stands, those remarks have not been withdrawn in this House. My question is—and I’m just seeking your guidance—what is my recourse if she does not take up the process that has been suggested, where do I actually get the chance to be able to defend myself, and are we able to get an undertaking from that member that she will either commit to making a formal complaint or withdraw the comments that she’s made? My concern is that there is no evidence for what she is suggesting, and I suspect she’s not going to make a complaint because she can’t back it up. Hon Ginny Andersen: Speaking to the point of order, Mr Speaker. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Greg O'Connor): I’ll just take some advice. The previous Speaker has already made a ruling about where this should be dealt with, and I’m aware of that. What I don’t intend to do is allow this to be a debate to take place here, and the remedy suggested by the previous Speaker in the Chair will stand. In answer to the point of order, I’ve made the ruling, and I will allow a point of order as long as it’s not contradicting anything that I’m saying and as long as it’s not a continuation of the— Hon Ginny Andersen: No, I won’t make it. I’m happy with the previous ruling. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Greg O'Connor): OK. So you’ve heard the previous Speaker in the Chair, who has invited the remedy, and, other than that, it is a debating point, as it stands. DAN ROSEWARNE (Labour) (16:37): I rise to speak on the second reading of the Arms Bill. Labour supports responsible firearms ownership. We know that many New Zealanders use firearms lawfully and responsibly for hunting, pest control, sports shooting, collecting, and recreation. Most licence holders do the right thing. They take their responsibilities seriously and understand that firearms must be treated with care and respect, but public safety must always come first, and that has been the New Zealand approach for a long time. Firearms ownership in this country is a privilege; not a right. It comes with responsibilities, it comes with obligations, and it comes with the expectation that Parliament will keep the law up to date when risks change or new technologies emerge. Labour’s differing view makes that point clearly: firearms regulation must prioritise public safety, and the licensing system has to reflect that principle. One of the things that concerns me about this bill is that there is a bit of Second Amendment - style nonsense creeping into the debate. That is not the New Zealand way, and there is not a constitutional right to possess firearms. We do not start from the position that every safeguard is an attack on liberty. We start from a much more practical Kiwi position: if you want to own firearms, you need to show that you are a fit and proper person, you need to follow the rules, and the public has the right to expect that the system is safe. That does not mean treating lawful firearm owners as the enemy and it does not mean ignoring the needs of farmers, hunters, pest controllers, clubs, collectors, and sporting shooters, but it does mean being honest about the risk. Firearms are not ordinary consumer goods; they are lethal weapons. In the right hands and used properly, they can be managed safely, but in the wrong hands, or under weak rules, the consequences can be devastating. I say that as someone who has spent a fair bit of my life around firearms. I’ve used them professionally, I’ve trained with them, and I’ve carried them in environments where safety, discipline, and judgment matter. That experience has left me with a pretty simple view: good firearms regulation is not about punishing responsible people; it is about making sure we identify the risks early and deal with them before they become bigger problems—and that is why I’ve taken a close interest in this bill. I’ve not come to this debate with slogans. I’ve done the work, I’ve looked into other jurisdictions, and I’ve launched a long list of written parliamentary questions because I wanted to know what is actually happening in the New Zealand firearms market, particularly around the changing style of firearms entering New Zealand. One area that I’ve been looking at closely is the push-button centrefire rifles. These are firearms that appear to sit in a regulatory gap. They are not traditional bolt-action rifles; they can automatically eject a spent cartridge, using gas operation or a similar self-ejecting mechanism, and then require the user to only activate a button lever release, or similar control, to chamber the next round. Labour’s differing view notes that while they may not be captured by the bill’s definition of a “semi-automatic firearm”, their practical capability and rate of fire can be comparable. That matters because the law should look at the practical risk; not just technical labels. If a firearm functions in a way that gets very close to the practical capability of a restricted semi-automatic centrefire rifle, then we should be prepared to ask whether it should be subject to similar controls. That is not anti-firearms; that is basic public safety. After the Bondi shooting, the New South Wales Government passed the Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025. It removed push-button rifles from the standard category A licence and moved them into the category C, which is described in the legislation as being prohibited, except for limited purposes. Now, I want to be clear that the Bondi gunman did not use a Ranger or a Alcor Push Button .223, but the reforms show that policy makers across the Tasman were prepared to take a closer look at this emerging class of firearm. In my view, there is value in learning from that experience while we are shaping this Arms Bill. The answers I received to my written parliamentary questions do concern me. Import permits have been issued for push-button rifles capable of accepting the STANAG 4179 or AR-15 pattern detachable magazines, including the Alcor .223 Push Button and the Ranger Push-Button Rifle. For example, the Government has confirmed that eighty-one .223 calibre Ranger Push-Button Rifles were imported into New Zealand between 1 January 2023 and 14 June 2026. Those imports were associated with two used import permits, with one firearm imported in 2025, and 80 imported this year, as at 14 June. Now, 81 firearms is not a large number, compared with the overall firearms market, and I’m not suggesting that people who lawfully own these firearms are doing anything wrong, but what it does show is that this type of firearm is beginning to establish a presence in New Zealand. These firearms automatically eject the spent cartridge after firing, and require only the activation of a button or release mechanism to chamber the next round. While they sit out of the current definition of a “semi-automatic firearm”, they have operating characteristics that should make the Government stop and take a closer look. When Parliament restricted military-style semi-automatic firearms, it should not have surprised anyone that manufacturers looked for alternatives. That is what happens when regulations change: one pathway closes, and another one opens. My concern is that push-button centrefire rifles may become that alternative pathway. We already have evidence that these firearms are entering New Zealand. We have legitimate questions about how they operate. We have legislation before Parliament right now. This is the moment to deal with the issue, not kick it down the road. If we can see that gap today, why would we wait for a future Order in Council, a future Government, or a future buy-back programme funded by taxpayers when we could deal with it now? That is why I’ve proposed an amendment to clause 9. My amendment would classify push-button - style centrefire firearms as restricted firearms where they use gas operation or another self-ejecting mechanism to automatically object a fired cartridge case and require only the activation of a button, lever release, or similar controlled chamber the next round from a magazine. The purpose of that amendment is straightforward: it would ensure that firearms or substantially similar practical rate of fire and operating characteristics to restricted semi-automatic centrefire rifles are subject to the same kind of regulatory controls. This is not radical; it’s practical. It says that if the risk profile is similar, the controls should be similar. It says Parliament should not always be one step behind emerging firearm technology. It says that we should not be reactive when we have the chance to be proactive. Emerging firearm platforms is one side of the public safety equation; the other is making sure that people who hold firearm licences remain suitable to do so. Now, quickly, the second area where I think the bill falls short is the fit and proper person test. For me, this is central to the whole firearms system. A firearms licence is not just a piece of paper; it’s the State saying the person could be trusted to possess firearms safely. That is a serious judgment, and it should be made carefully and it should be clearly grounded in public safety. Again, this comes back to the principle that firearm ownership is a privilege, and not a right. If someone wants to hold a firearms licence, the burden should be on them to meet the standard. That is not unfair; that is a basic requirement that should sit underneath a responsible firearms licensing system. I’m also concerned that the law needs to do better to reflect the world that we live in now. Radicalisation and extremist behaviour do not always happen in obvious places. They do not always happen in public meetings or in formal organisations; increasingly, they happen online. A few months ago, I posted on social media about my concerns regarding push-button rifles, and the response included vitriol, abuse, and extremist commentary to such an extent that I removed the post and sought advice from parliamentary security. I took the post down because I did not want it becoming a platform for online hate—and if any of the individuals posting that material happened to be firearms licence holders, then, in my view, that should raise serious questions about whether they remain a fit and proper person to possess firearms. That online activity and that participation in the online activity is cause for concern that we need to address in this bill. Therefore, I have huge concerns, and this is an opportunity to put it right. Thank you, Mr Speaker. Dr VANESSA WEENINK (National—Banks Peninsula) (16:47): Thank you, Mr Speaker. It is an honour to speak in the second reading of the Arms Bill. As a doctor at the time of the Christchurch shootings, I did have patients from our practice who were killed, and their families affected. However, my family are also owners of firearms. I understand the perspective of people who are very law-abiding citizens who have felt targeted because of their ownership of firearms. Therefore, I think this bill has created a strong and balanced compromise. I commend the bill to the House. ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Greg O'Connor): This is a five-minute, split call. Hon Dr DUNCAN WEBB (Labour—Christchurch Central) (16:48): Thank you, Mr Chair. This is a bill of two halves, in some ways, because, as the Associate Minister of Justice observed in her speech, the Justice Committee worked pretty cooperatively to just make the rules around arms workable for things like museum curators and overseas visitors, and things like that, including rules around when a licence is suspended or when a firearm is uplifted from a premise. There were some really useful discussions both around balancing, for example, the risk of a firearm and, essentially, the inconvenience of the rule. A good example that the Minister referred to was the length of time that a firearm can be left at a gunsmith without having to identify its precise location on the register. Obviously, there are situations where it takes a fair length of time to get parts for a rifle or to just do the necessary work. The seven-day period was thought to be a little unrealistic, and that is also recognising that a gunsmith is a trusted person—a person who’s kind of had a higher level of scrutiny than just an ordinary firearms licence holder—and so that length of time was pushed out to 38 days, I think it was, from memory. The other half of the bill, though, is this idea that we need to sever the relationship of firearms regulation from the role of policing. Our concern around this bill is that firearms are used throughout criminal networks and there is a grey area. It’s just not the case that every person who is a licensed firearms owner is good, and every person who has a firearm and doesn’t have a licence is problematic. The second half is true, but in the first half, there is clearly a class of people—and the police are on to it—that are assisting criminal elements to obtain firearms. Even apart from that, it’s critical that the police can have ready access to information when they’re attending a premises or an incident to know the likelihood that firearms will be present. That’s a critical part of it, and it’s not clear to us, and we could not be assured, that under the proposed system this would be the case. We consider that the move to create an agency, albeit within police but without commissioned sworn police having a functional role within the organisation—we don’t think it’s a good move. We also don’t think it’s good value either, because it’s going to cost many tens of millions of dollars—I think the estimates are over $50 million over four years—to transfer this function into this new organisation, which seems to be mainly a doctrinaire approach rather than one of pragmatics. We do have concerns. I must say, without being too flattering, it was very good to have Dan Rosewarne on the Justice Committee, because he does have a comprehensive knowledge of firearms and he was able to inform the committee and his colleagues very well on these matters, and his concerns around push-button firearms are real. These are firearms which discharge the cartridge automatically and use the gas generated by the discharge to kind of pre-load the next cartridge, and you simply press a button, which on some versions of this is on the stock. It’s pull the trigger; press the button; shoot. So you can imagine—and you only have to go to YouTube to have a look and see—how rapidly these rifles can fire. In fact, there was a YouTube clip I looked at where they were glowingly saying how they had shot off 2,000 rounds in a couple of hours. Now, that’s not something I’d be particularly proud of. It suggests that the speed of fire is the main thing there and we know that this House, barring one vote, banned semi-automatic weapons, so I think we do need to keep a close eye on push-button firearms. That’s why we’re not supporting this bill. MILES ANDERSON (National—Waitaki) (16:53): Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to speak on the Arms Bill in the second reading. Amongst many provisions in this bill, I’m really pleased to see that there are improvements for specialist users, including dealers, pest controllers, gunsmiths, collectors, museums, and other businesses. There has been a lot of commentary around that in this community when the changes came through in 2019, so I’m pleased to see those changes are being made and I commend this bill to the House. GEORGIE DANSEY (Labour) (16:53): Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to take a call on the Arms Bill. I wanted to start my contribution just to speak to the Associate Minister of Justice’s comments at the beginning of her statement around the banning of military style semi-automatic weapons, and the Minister talked about that legislation being rushed through Parliament and there being messy changes. I want to speak to that because I wasn’t in Parliament at the time, but I watched, like most of the New Zealand public, to see how this Parliament would respond to the devastating attack in Christchurch. What I saw was a Government acting decisively to ban an incredibly dangerous weapon after that terrorist attacked. I’ll also note that every single member of that Parliament voted in favour of the changes to protect our communities— Hon Nicole McKee: No, they didn’t. GEORGIE DANSEY: —apart from one. Thank you, Minister. Yes, I was getting there. One person. I think this speaks to the real concern that Labour has with this bill, which is that the changes were made to protect all New Zealanders, and the protection of New Zealanders and the safety of New Zealanders should be at the forefront of everything we do in Parliament. Other speakers have spoken to the concerns that we have around this bill. I’m really, really pleased to see that although the ACT Party campaigned on deregulating military style semi-automatic weapons, they were not successful in that. I’m very pleased that National was able to put their foot down about something in the coalition and not agree to progress that part of this bill, because we know how dangerous those weapons are. It’s very pleasing to see that ACT has failed to deliver on that promise they made to gun lobby groups in that space. Today, I wanted to talk about three aspects of the Arms Bill and why Labour is opposing this bill. Other speakers have spoken to the real concerns raised by front-line police. I think, for a bill like this, when we have our police officers on the front line every single day dealing with firearms in our communities, whether they are licensed or unlicensed firearms, we need to take their opinion and their expertise very, very seriously. It’s unfortunate that, despite the view of front-line police during the select committee process, the Government has chosen to ignore them. It’s interesting because we hear the Minister of Police, Mark Mitchell, constantly talk about how much he appreciates the police, and yet, in this bill, the expertise of the police has not been prioritised. The three things that I wanted to discuss today were the firearms authority—other speakers have spoken to that, and I wanted to elaborate a little bit on that—the push-button centre-fire rifles, and the “fit and proper person” provisions. I’ll start with the firearms authority. Labour’s position is that this authority should stay with the police. As mentioned, and as we all know, our police do an incredible job for public safety in our communities every single day, and their expertise in this matter should be put at the forefront of decision making. I wanted to speak specifically to the “no blue shirts” rule. This rule, for the listeners at home, means that sworn police officers are prohibited from being employed by or involved in the new firearms regulatory agency. The issue we have there is that if we’re not involving our police officers in these processes and in the regulatory agency, this will weaken the intelligence gathering, the enforcement, and the licensing of this agency, and it removes decision-making authorities and removes that influence in decision making from the police. Under the Arms Bill, licensing is handled by civilian staff led by an independent chief executive who reports directly to the firearms Minister. As I mentioned, if the Minister of Police cares so deeply about police and their expertise and the value that they bring to our country, then my question is: why are they being left out of the regulatory agency? Because leaving police out of this agency brings a major weakness to this bill. It means that our communities won’t be as safe. We know that police have the insight from working on the front line every single day, and that insight is so valuable to us as a country. Having them as part of the regulatory agency is an important part of that. So while the regulator is intended to operate independently and will not employ sworn officers, it will continue to rely on police for certain corporate services. We are not convinced that this hybrid arrangement will work, and we’re not convinced that it serves the best interests of public safety or the public. Look, other speakers have spoken to this bill coming into effect on 23 September, which is—I’m not wearing a watch, but if I was, it’s about a month away, I think—two months. But the point I’m making is not that I’m not wearing a watch, but that it’s not a lot of time [Members point to the clock]—thank you. That doesn’t tell the time! The point that I’m making is that—what point am I making? The point I’m making is that there isn’t a lot of time in order to get this up and running and ready for 23 September. That’s where our concerns are that if there’s this hybrid relationship arrangement where the police aren’t sitting on the regulatory agency but have other requirements of them, are the police going to be up and ready to go with the new agency on 23 September? Will they have the training required to implement new processes? The lack of detail around that specific issue is where I have a number of questions, just to ensure that everyone is prepared for this process. I am concerned that the bureaucracy of this will balloon out of hand, so I have further questions around how the bureaucracy will be reduced and managed during this process with the new regulator. The second point that I wanted to mention—and my colleague Dan Rosewarne has spoken to this—is the push-button centre-fire rifles. Labour remains concerned about a regulatory gap relating to push-button centre-fire rifles. These are self-ejecting, gas-operated firearms, and require only a manual bolt release between shots. We acknowledge that they are not captured by the bill’s definition of a semi-automatic firearm, but they deliver a rate of fire and functionality that is, in practical terms, comparable to semi-automatic weapons. Given the purpose of the bill is to promote safe possession and prevent misuse of firearms, I think there’s really a big gap here in what could have been and should have been considered in the changes made as part of this legislation. To summarise, overall, the voice of front-line police was very clear in saying that there are major weaknesses in the bill. Police are sitting at the front line, yet their voice is being taken away, their expertise is being taken away in the processing of the regulatory agency. Labour opposes the bill. A party vote was called for on the question, That the Arms Bill be now read a second time. Ayes 67 New Zealand National 48; ACT New Zealand 11; New Zealand First 8. Noes 55 New Zealand Labour 34; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 15; Te Pāti Māori 4; Ferris; Kapa-Kingi. Motion agreed to. Bill read a second time.

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