Yes, stun guns are legal in New Zealand, but their possession and use are strictly regulated under the Arms Act 1983 and Firearms Regulations 2026.
Stun guns fall under the definition of “restricted weapons” in New Zealand’s Arms Act, requiring a valid firearms license for lawful possession. Unlicensed ownership or carrying in public without justification constitutes an offense under Section 45 of the Act. The New Zealand Police (NZP) enforces compliance, with recent 2026 amendments tightening storage and use conditions to align with broader weapons control measures.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in New Zealand
- Licensing Requirement: A standard firearms license (Category A) is mandatory for possession; applications require background checks and competency assessments by NZP.
- Use Restrictions: Stun guns may only be used in self-defense against imminent threats; discharging them in altercations without provocation risks criminal charges under the Crimes Act 1961.
- Storage Obligations: Devices must be secured in a locked container, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, per NZP’s 2026 Firearms Regulations update.
Violations may result in fines up to NZ$4,000, license revocation, or imprisonment under the Arms Act. The NZP’s 2026 compliance framework emphasizes traceability, with mandatory registration for all restricted weapons.