Consent to import

If you want to import a prohibited offensive weapon, you need a consent to import. Find out how to apply and whether you meet the requirements.

On this page

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.

How to apply

  1. Complete the form

    You can either:

    - save the PDF to your computer (to edit, you must have a PDF reader installed: Download and install Adobe Reader free)

    - print the PDF and complete it by hand.

    Offensive weapons

    FRM 67OW - Application for Consent to Import (PDF 164.75 KB)

  2. Submit your application

    - By email: permitfirearms@firearmssafety.govt.nz 

    - By post: Permit Team, Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand, PO Box 722, Paraparaumu, Kapiti 5032

    - In person to a Police station: Find Police stations | New Zealand Police website

    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

Read more in the Arms Act 2026 about:

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)
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