Public consultation on the Arms Act rewrite

Closes 28 Feb 2025

Opened 13 Jan 2025

Overview

We are rewriting the Arms Act to ensure it provides for greater protection of public safety, reflects best regulatory practice, and is fit for purpose. The rewrite is a key part of the commitment made by the Government in the Coalition Agreement between the National Party and ACT Party to reform New Zealand’s firearms system. Visit the Firearms reform webpage for more information.

Firearms reform

Why your views matter

Every community has a role in shaping the rewrite of the Act. We want to hear your thoughts on what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change. Your submission will help the Government identify where the Act is and isn’t working.

Discussion document

We have developed a discussion document to assist with your submission. This document divides the Act into seven key themes and includes a glossary to explain technical terms. The glossary can also be downloaded as a separate document. 

Summary version of the discussion document

We have also developed a summary version of the discussion document that is shorter, less technical and available in English, Arabic, Bengali, Somali, and Urdu languages. Accessible formats will soon be available.

Closing date

Submissions must be received by midnight 28 February. Due to expected high interest, we encourage early submissions.

Other ways to make your submission

If you prefer not to use Citizen Space, you can email or post your submission. 

Audiences

  • Young people
  • Older people
  • Disabled people
  • NZ residents
  • Community groups
  • NZ public sector
  • NZ private sector
  • Legal profession
  • Agencies and services that work with people experiencing family violence
  • Family violence sector
  • Human rights stakeholders
  • Non-Government Organisations
  • All New Zealanders
  • General public
  • Anyone who has experienced a crime
  • Internal and external parties
  • Courts and tribunals staff
  • Court Victims Advisors
  • Judges
  • Higher Court Judges
  • Police
  • Current and former Human Rights Commission staff
  • National Human Rights Institutions
  • Invited participants
  • Family violence programme providers

Interests

  • Online web audit
  • Stakeholder / partner engagement
  • Ministry channels
  • Feedback
  • Surveys and consultations
  • Family violence
  • Domestic violence law
  • Human rights
  • Law enforcement
  • Search and Surveillance Act 2012
  • Family Court
  • Convention Against Torture
  • Legal profession
  • Intelligence and Security Agencies review
  • Criminal justice system