The forms in this page contain references to terminology and provisions that have changed under the Arms Act 2026. As we progressively update all forms, they remain available for use. They will be processed under the provisions of the new legislation.
Apply for a permit to possess
Find out how to apply for a permit to possess so you can buy or receive a specific item that is either restricted, a pistol or a pistol carbine conversion kit (PCCK).
On this page
Before you begin
Before you apply find out which arms items require a permit to possess, who can apply and what you need to provide in your application.
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.
How to apply
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Printed, complete and sign the form
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Submit your application
If your application is for a restricted firearm or magazine
Email: Prohibitedfirearmendorsement@firearmssafety.govt.nz
Post: Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand – 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.
If the permit is for a restricted firearm or magazine
The quickest way to submit the photos is by email.
Email: Prohibitedfirearmendorsement@firearmssafety.govt.nz
Post: Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand – Endorsement Team, PO Box 722, Paraparaumu, Kapiti 5032.
If the permit to possess is for a PCCK
The quickest way to submit the photos is by email.
Email: PermitFirearms@firearmssafety.govt.nz
Post: Permit Team, Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand, PO Box 722, Paraparaumu, Kapiti 5032.
Record the items in the Firearms Registry
If you are not a licensed business, you must record information in the Firearms Registry as soon as you have the arms item in your possession.
The fastest way to register is through our website using MyFirearms. To use MyFirearms, you must have a mobile phone and a RealMe login.
Or call our Registry and Services Team on 0800 844 431.
Permits may be revoked
Your permit to possess may be revoked at any time by an Arms Officer.
If your permit is revoked, you will be notified in writing and you will no longer be able to use it.
Relevant legislation
Related links
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