The Arms Bill passed its final reading in Parliament today meaning New Zealanders will soon have much better firearms laws that respect licenced firearm owners and improve public safety, says Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee.

“The Bill keeps firearms out of criminals’ hands, while making compliance easier for licenced firearm owners,” says Mrs McKee

“Firearms are used by licenced New Zealanders to put food on the table, earn a living, manage pests, compete in sport, enjoy the outdoors, and more.

“The new law replaces a complex and confusing patchwork with legislation that is more logically structured, easier to understand, and focused on the areas that matter most for public safety.

“It strengthens penalties and enforcement against unlawful firearms activity while removing unnecessary rules and improving the way the firearms system operates.

“One of the most significant changes is the creation of a new arms regulator, Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand, that will operate independently of the Police.

“Police will be able to focus on investigating crime and holding offenders to account, while the regulator focuses on licensing, firearms safety, education, and delivering a professional service to licenced firearm owners.

“That separation is an important step towards rebuilding trust and confidence in the firearms regulatory system.

“Most of the Bill, along with regulations giving effect to the changes in the Bill, will come into force on 23 September. The remaining provisions will come into force progressively by 23 February 2028.

“I would like to thank every New Zealander, including those members from the firearms community, who engaged with this process. The Bill had extensive consultation prior to being drafted, along with a full six-month select committee process where New Zealanders could share their views and suggest improvements. This is how law should be made.

“On a personal level, this is a very special moment. I came to Parliament six years ago with a goal of completely replacing the Arms Act 1983. Today that goal has been achieved.”

Notable changes in the Bill include: