Can I import a firearm into NZ?

If you hold a New Zealand Firearms Licence you may apply to import an approved type of firearm. Complete a Permit to Import and contact your local Arms Officer.

If you are visiting for 12 months or less, you need to obtain a visitor’s firearms licence ($25) and an import permit for your firearms. You can only apply for the licence once you arrive but the details of your proposed importation can be confirmed in advance. You need to send or bring copies of:

• The Visitor’s Firearms Licence and Permit to Import Firearms application form;
• The photo page of your passport;
• Evidence you are a bona fide shooter in your country of origin (your home country firearms licence/permit/certificate).

You can send these by email, mail or fax to police at the airport where you will first arrive in New Zealand. Click here for international airports’ contact addresses.

Please ensure your firearms are of the type approved for import into New Zealand before you arrive here. If your firearms are not on this list of approved firearms, please email the Firearms Unit with the make and model.

If you bring an unapproved firearm into New Zealand it will be sent to the New Zealand Police Armoury, who will either approve or decline your application. If your application is declined, police will retain your firearm until you leave New Zealand.