Rule 1: Treat every firearm as loaded
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Rule 2: Always point firearms in a safe direction
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Rule 3: Load a firearm only when ready to fire
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Rule 4: Identify your target beyond all doubt
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Rule 5: Check your firing zone
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Rule 6: Store firearms and ammunition safely
Arms Regulations storage standardsFirearms licence holders must take reasonable steps to secure firearms against theft. These steps include:
“Stout construction" means it must be strong enough to stop a child or thief getting access. Putting a lock on a cupboard, wardrobe, or gun-case is not enough. The storage space must be able to withstand attack from unpowered hand tools for a minimum of ten minutes. Wooden or MDF cabinets/receptacles are unlikely to meet this requirement. Seek advice from your Police Arms Officer before purchasing any cabinet, container or receptacle to store firearms, as it might not meet the standard. The cabinet/container must only be used for storing firearms and must only be accessible to the licence holder. All cabinets, containers, safes, and receptacles must be securely fixed to the frame of the building to prevent theft.
Firearms in vehiclesIf you are travelling with your firearm(s), then they must be:
Your vehicle can be left unattended during a break in a journey for up to 60min provided:
It is good practice to have your vehicle fitted with an immobiliser and/or alarm.
Keep children safeAll family members, especially children, need to know what a firearm is, what it is designed for, and why it must not be touched. Letting children handle firearms when you are supervising them may help to satisfy their natural curiosity, but it is essential to teach children that firearms are not toys and they must be treated with respect. Teach children not to touch a firearm without an adult present, and to get help from an adult if they find a firearm. More informationAnyone owning pistols, restricted weapons or prohibited firearms must have a higher standard of security than for sporting firearms (‘A’ category) owners.
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Rule 7: Avoid both alcohol and drugs when handling firearms
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Helpful information | |
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Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council video series on the Seven Basic Rules of Firearms Safety. Read the Secure Storage Guidance for Firearms and Ammunition (PDF 945KB), designed to assist firearms licence and endorsement holders and firearms licence applicants understand how the security conditions may be met. |
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Need help? | |
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Find your local Firearms Office |