Select Committee Reports on Arms Amendment Bill (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges, and Other Matters)
This week the Justice Committee published their final report on the Arms Amendment Bill (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges, and Other Matters). The report includes a range of outcomes effecting NZDA clubs and range, from wins to unfortunate news. From here, all clubs need to be on standby for further advocacy work, as regulations and forms will be developed for enrolment.
In October last year the NZDA made a detailed submission on behalf of members, and in November we had representatives make verbal submissions from NZDA, HUNTS Trust, COLFO and more.
Now members should focus on the Arms Act Consultation which closes February 28th. More below.
For Extended information on the following, members please check your emails:
The Good News:
- Firearms policy moves from Police to the Ministry of Justice
This is a significant win for regulatory neutrality. NZDA strongly supports this move as it aligns with the principle of separation of powers—ensuring that the Police do not simultaneously create, enforce, and regulate firearms laws. This shift will bring greater transparency, accountability, and fairness to how firearm regulations are developed and applied. We will be closely monitoring how this transition unfolds and will keep members informed of any key developments. - All NZDA clubs are now certified and automatically enrolled
Pending range applications will automatically be considered enrolled under the new system– transition clauses have been tidied up. This helps up to 300 applications and small clubs not have to re-file with unknown paperwork and forms yet to be developed. - No mandatory standing orders for NZDA
We can use our own, and all our clubs now have approved standing orders. This gives clubs the flexibility to operate within their own frameworks without additional imposed requirements. - All NZDA clubs are permitted to hold two shooting events per year at temporary ranges that are not pre-certified
- Previously, such events were not allowed. The NZDA had requested permission for five events but was granted two. It has been clarified that each "shooting event" at a temporary range can extend up to four days. All our 49 branches can now hold competitions or HUNTS shooting days. This flexibility is welcomed.
The Okay News:
- Adhoc inspections are gone; Inspection regime changed to 5 yearly
Police may only inspect your range once every 5 years, with 7 days prior notice. The inspection team can now take a ‘risk based’ approach and pace out the compliance.
The Bad News:
- The $10,000 fine remains
Despite a call for it to be lowered. Small clubs could face heavy fines for minor administrative lapses. - Police retain inspection powers
Rejecting the call for a ‘Range Inspector’ role. - Police can still remove original documents from Club possession
During inspections. This could harm clubs if important records are lost. - Fee structures remain vague
The final bill still allows fees to be imposed without specifying the amount, leaving uncertainty about future costs for volunteer-run clubs.
Where to From Here
The Government will soon ask for feedback on the regulations that will govern enrolled clubs as part of another consultation process.
NZDA will be actively involved in this process, but it will mean more work for our clubs, officers, and volunteers to ensure that these regulations are fair and practical. We encourage all clubs to be ready to participate in the consultation when the time comes.
Once again, NZDA thanks all members who made submissions both written and verbal, it all helps to secure the rights of licenced firearm owners and hope that others will consider it as we look towards a new Arms Act in 2026.
Second Reading Taking Place 11th February at Approximately 8pm
The second reading on the Arms (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges, and Other Matters) Amendment Bill is happening TONIGHT at approximately 8pm in Parliament. Follow the link to access the live stream.
Track the bill progress here.
Make Your Submission Now: Arms Act Consultation COLFO Guide Now Available
Closes 28th February
COLFO has published its Arms Act Consultation Guide for individuals. The guide is designed to help licensed firearm owners prepare their submission. We encourage all members to use this resource and have their say.
Why It Matters - Support the Reform by Submitting
Your voice does count. Those MPs within government and cabinet need an overwhelming number of support/in favour submissions in order to convince their anti-gun colleagues within government that the reform is called for.
What You Can Do Now
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Read the COLFO Submission Guide – This will help you get ideas to draft your submission.
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Submit your feedback – The Ministry of Justice has provided a platform for public submissions. You must submit by the 28th of February.
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Spread the word – Share this email with fellow hunters and firearm owners.
What NZDA Is Doing
We will continue advocating for fair and sensible firearms laws on behalf of hunters. Our official NZDA submission is in progress, and we’ll keep members updated. However, numbers count – so make sure your individual voice is heard.
Click Here to Access the Guide & Make Your Submission
Together, we can ensure future laws support responsible firearm owners, hunting, and conservation.
Join and Support NZDA
Find and join a branch to get involved with promoting and protecting hunting in New Zealand! Search here.
https://www.deerstalkers.org.nz/join-and-support-us/branch-finder/