Travelling with firearms on domestic flights

Travelling with firearms and ammunition is always at the airline’s discretion. Each airline has specific rules and has the final say on whether firearms are permitted on board.

Airlines may still question the validity of your firearms licence. To help make your journey as smooth as possible, check with your airline early and follow these tips:

1 - Notify your airline in advance
2 - Follow the packing guidelines for firearms and ammunition  
3 - Prepare the required documents for travel

Before your flight, let your airline know you’ll be travelling with firearms or ammunition. Early notification is important, as each airline has specific procedures to follow.

Your Firearms

Pack your firearm in a locked, hard case:

• Unloaded, including any magazines emptied
• Rendered inoperable e.g. bolt removed, trigger guard(s)/trigger lock(s) fitted etc
• Not packed with any ammunition
• Not packed with the bolt (if applicable)
• Is declared to a Customer Service Agent when you check-in
• Secure storage: Store firearms in a locked, hard-sided case specifically designed for secure transport.

This case should prevent unauthorised access. These cases are typically made from durable materials like high-strength plastic, aluminium, or composite resin, and are equipped with built-in locks or lockable latches. 

Your Ammunition

When packing, make sure the ammunition: 

• Is in a container that separates each round (securely packed) i.e. not touching each other 
• Is in your checked bags
• Is not packed in the same case as your firearm
• Is declared to a Customer Service Agent when you check-in.
• Does not exceed a total weight of 5 kg, including the weight of the container. This limit applies per firearms licence holder and cannot be combined between passengers.

New Zealand Firearms Licence
Always carry your current New Zealand Firearms Licence while you travel. If needed, use the Firearms Licence Checker to show the Customer Service Agent you have a valid firearms licence.

If your licence is under renewal: use the Firearms Licence Checker to confirm validity before you travel. Be ready to show the result on your phone at check-in when asked.

International permits
For flights to other countries, you may need import/export permits and must follow the firearms regulations of the destination country. 

Once at the airport, check if your airline has additional requirements.

• Declare firearms and ammunition at check-in. Airline staff may inspect your luggage to confirm compliance
• Present your firearms Licence when asked
• Airline staff may need to check the security of your checked-in luggage. 

• Contact your airline: For airline-specific questions, reach out to the airline’s customer support team.
• Regulatory assistance: For questions about New Zealand’s firearm regulations, contact the Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand on 0800844431