Can I bring knives into New Zealand?

It is prohibited to import:

• Any knife where the blade opens automatically by button, spring or other device (eg flick knives);
• Any knife where the blade is released by force of gravity or force to the central point, and which is then locked in place by a button, spring, lever or other device (eg butterfly knives, gravity knives);
• Any knife (excluding folding pocket knife with blade less than 10cm) that is designed for easy concealment on the body, or has a double-edged blade designed for stabbing/throwing, or
• Any knife known as ‘urban skinner’, ‘black eagle’, ‘terminator’, ‘black dagger’ or ‘throwing knife’.

If you have a legitimate reason to seek an exemption, application to import these weapons should be made to your nearest Arms Office.

Other knives (such as single-edged hunting knives) are not restricted. If in doubt, declare your knife/knives at the port of entry.