Firearms Prohibition Orders
The New Zealand Government wants to prevent high-risk people from having access to firearms. The purpose of restricting access is to protect the public from the harm that can be caused by the misuse of firearms. Firearms Prohibition Orders would prohibit high-risk people from using, accessing, or being around firearms. Breaching the conditions of a Firearms Prohibition Order would be a criminal offence.
To help achieve this, the Government sought the public's views on whether or not a regime should be established in New Zealand, and if so, what it could look like. This resulted in a bill going before the House for Parliament to debate.
The bill was passed and new Firearm Prohibition Orders legislation comes into effect from 16 November 2022.
Firearm Prohibition Orders will help to reduce gun harm and make communities safer.
Next steps
Following the Government announcement to introduce Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPOs), a Firearms Prohibition Order Bill will be introduced into the House before the end of the year. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the bill when it is referred to select committee.
Related information
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Media Release from Minister of Police announcing new law passed to reduce gun harm
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Media release from Minister of Police announcing bill for firearms prohibition orders
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Media release from Minister of Police announcing tighter firearms laws
- Cabinet Paper (PDF 410KB)
- Consultation Document (PDF 980KB)