Check what you need to know before you apply.
Find out how to apply for a permit to possess so you can buy or receive a specific item that is either restricted, prohibited, a pistol or a pistol carbine conversion kit (PCCK).
Before you begin
How much it costs
There is no fee for a permit to possess.
How long does a permit to possess last
Permits expire 1 month after the date on which that permit was issued.
If you have not used the permit within that 1-month period, you will need to apply for a new one. Permits do not get renewed.
Permits may be revoked
Your permit to import may be revoked at any time by the commissioned officer of Police.
If your permit is revoked, you will be notified in writing and you will no longer be able to use it.
How to apply
Step 1: Complete the form
You can either:
- save the PDF to your computer (you must have a PDF reader installed), or
- print the PDF and complete it by hand.
Forms:
Step 2: Submit your application
If your application is for a prohibited firearm or magazine
Email: Prohibitedfirearmendorsement@police.govt.nz
Post: Te Tari Pūreke – Endorsement Team, PO Box 722, Paraparaumu, Kapiti 5032
If your application is for pistols or restricted weapons
Submit your application to your regional office.
Receive the permit to possess
If your application is approved, you’ll be asked to collect your permit from your regional arms office and show identification. In some cases, your permit may be sent to you in the mail. It’s a good idea to keep a copy of the permit for your records after the transaction is completed.
If your application is refused, you’ll be notified in writing, including the reasons your application was refused.
If you’re not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to appeal to the District Court.
You must appeal within 20 working days of the refusal decision (unless the court gives special leave to extend that time).
Receive the item from the supplier
You must give all 3 copies of the permit to the supplier selling you the item.
They must complete their portion of the permit and return 2 copies to you. They must keep a copy for themselves.
You can now receive the item from the supplier.
Finally, you must send us:
- a photo or scan of the permit, and
- a photo of the item with your licence in the picture.
Record the items in the Firearms Registry
If you are not a licensed dealer, you must record information in the Firearms Registry when you receive an arms item.
As soon as you have the item in your possession, call our Registry and Services Team on 0800 844 431.
Relevant legislation
- Arms Act 1983, section 35 — Issue of permit to possess pistol or restricted weapon | New Zealand Legislation website
- Arms Act 1983, section 35A — Issue of permit to possess prohibited firearm or prohibited magazine | Legislation website
- Arms Act 1983, section 35AAA — Issue of permit to possess pistol carbine conversion kit | New Zealand Legislation website
- Arms Act 1983, section 62B – Right of appeal to District Court | New Zealand Legislation website
- District Court Rules 2014, section 18.4 – Time for appeal if there is right of appeal | New Zealand Legislation website
Related links
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Phone 0800 844 431 (04 499 2870) 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday |