Apply for a consent to import

If you want to import offensive weapons, you need consent to import. You do not need a firearms licence or a permit to import.

On this page

What is an offensive weapon

Offensive weapons include knuckledusters, disguised weapons, switchblades, bayonets and certain types of knives into New Zealand. 

Offensive weapons are defined in:

Customs Import Prohibition (Offensive Weapons) Order 2021 – Schedule 2, Offensive weapons prohibited from importation | New Zealand Legislation website

What is consent to import

A consent to import is permission to import a prohibited offensive weapon into New Zealand from overseas. These items are prohibited from importation however consent may be issued by the Chief Executive of FSE in exceptional circumstances.

Who can apply 

Anyone can apply for consent to import offensive weapons – you do not need a firearms licence.

How much it costs

There is no fee for consent to import.

When to apply 

You must apply for a consent to import before your items arrive in New Zealand – otherwise they may be seized or detained by New Zealand Customs or New Zealand Police. 

Applications can take 5-6 weeks to process.

How long does a consent to import last

You must import the items into New Zealand within 12 months of receiving the consent, or within the timeframe specified by the Chief Executive.

The consent to import expires once used. Consents to import do not renew.

Your consent to import may be revoked at any time by the Chief Executive. If your consent is revoked, you will be notified in writing and you will no longer be able to use it.

Information you must provide

In your application, you must include:

  • your details – including identification information such as your firearms licence number
  • details about what you want to import – including weblinks to the place of purchase
  • the reason why you believe you should be able to import the item into New Zealand.

How to apply

Step 1: Complete the form 

You can either:

Application for Consent to Import FRM 67OW

Step 2: Submit your application 

Once you’ve submitted your application, we'll get back to you via email. Check your junk or spam folder in case responses have gone there.

After you apply

Your application will be approved or refused

If approved, your consent will be sent to you. 
 
If refused, you’ll be notified in writing, including the reasons your application was refused.
 
If your application includes items that don’t need a permit, we'll also let you know.

If you do not apply for consent before the items arrive in New Zealand

It’s an offence to import items without an approved permit or consent to import. If you do not have a consent to import or you have not declared and/or labelled you items correctly, New Zealand Customs or New Zealand Police can detain or seize items on arrival. 

If your item is detained, contact: permitfirearms@firearmssafety.govt.nz 

If your item is seized, contact New Zealand Customs

Relevant legislation

Related links

Items that require a permit or consent to import
After you import items into New Zealand
Apply for a permit to import

 

Need help?
phonePhone 0800 844 431 (04 499 2870)
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday