Those hunters who wish to bring their own firearms into New
Zealand should familiarise themselves with the rules that apply
to the temporary importation of firearms. Also, hunters should
check with airlines before booking tickets regarding individual
airlines policies on carrying firearms
The primary law relating to the ownership and use of firearms
in New Zealand is the Arms Amendment Act 1992 and this statute
can be found on the NZ Government Statutes website at www.legislation.govt.nz/.
Further details of laws relating to firearms and general safety
rules can be found on the NZ
Police web site. Specific rules applying to the temporary
importation of firearms by hunters can be found at www.police.govt.nz/firearms_import.php.
You can download the application for a Visitor's temporary firearms
license here.
For hunting purposes, it is extremely difficult to bring
semi automatic rifles into New Zealand, and it is not possible
to bring handguns to New Zealand. You should have no problems
bringing a bolt action sporting rifle into this country.
When you arrive in New Zealand, you must:
1. Declare all firearms to the New Zealand Customs Officials.
2. Declare all firearms to the New Zealand Police.
3. Apply to the Airport Police on arrival for a "Permit
to Import".
4. Apply for a Tourist Firearm Licence, which is valid for
one year.
Provided your firearms are of approved types, you will receive
your "Permit to Import" immediately. To then gain a
Tourist Firearm Licence, you must pay $25.00 and show the Police:
1. Your passport.
2. Evidence that you have a firearms licence (or equivalent) in your
own country.
Before you bring firearms into New Zealand you can check if
the firearms you intend to bring with you are approved makes
and models, by sending details including the Make and Model to:
The Coordinator Licensing and Vetting
Police National Headquarters
PO Box 3017
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND
Telephone: +64 4 474 9539 Fax: +64 4 499 1065
email: firearms@police.govt.nz
Note: Even without a licence, you may use a firearm if
you are under the direct supervision of someone who does hold
a Firearms Licence.
Also remember that Gert has rifles available for your use at
no additional costs, should you desire, but please notify Gert
at the time of booking your trip if you wish to use his rifles.