New Zealand Passes Key Firearms Legislation to Combat Gang Violence

“This Bill represents the first phase in our comprehensive effort to modernize New Zealand’s firearms laws, prioritizing the safety of our communities,” said McKee.

New Zealand's Coalition Government has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to restore law and order with the passing of the Firearms Prohibition Orders Legislation Amendment Bill, announced Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee.

The newly enacted legislation is a critical component of the Government’s 100-day plan, aimed at enhancing the powers of law enforcement to address gang-related violence and organized criminal activity. The Bill amends several key statutes, including the Arms Act 1983, Search and Surveillance Act 2012, and Sentencing Act 2002, to overhaul the Firearms Prohibition Order (FPO) system.

“This Bill represents the first phase in our comprehensive effort to modernize New Zealand’s firearms laws, prioritizing the safety of our communities,” said McKee. “It addresses the unacceptable levels of gang-related violence and public intimidation that have plagued our nation.”

The amendment introduces several crucial reforms to the existing FPO regime:

Expanded Criteria: The Bill broadens the criteria for issuing an FPO, focusing specifically on gang members and those involved in gang-related offenses.

FPO Modification Process: It establishes a procedure for varying, modifying, or revoking an FPO as needed.

Enhanced Search Powers: The Bill grants police new authority to search individuals to ensure compliance with FPOs.

McKee emphasized that the legislation is designed not as an additional punishment but as a means to enforce compliance with existing orders. “This Bill is about ensuring that individuals with FPOs adhere to the restrictions placed upon them, with the ultimate goal of enhancing community safety.”

The Minister highlighted the tragic consequences of gang violence, noting the impact on innocent lives, such as the recent deaths of an elderly woman and a child caught in gang conflicts. The new legislation aims to prevent such tragedies by removing firearms from the possession of gang members and improving monitoring and enforcement.

The passing of this Bill marks a decisive step in the Government’s commitment to curbing gun violence and ensuring safer communities across New Zealand.