No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as restricted weapons under New Zealand’s Arms Act 1983, making their possession, sale, or use illegal without a permit. The New Zealand Police enforce these restrictions, and unauthorised possession may result in prosecution under Section 45 of the Act, with penalties including fines or imprisonment. Recent 2026 compliance reviews by the Police National Arms Control Unit have tightened scrutiny on prohibited weapons, including shuriken, aligning with international security standards.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in New Zealand
- Prohibition under the Arms Act 1983: Shuriken are explicitly listed as restricted weapons, requiring a special permit for possession, which is rarely granted. Unlicensed ownership constitutes an offence under Section 45(1).
- Police Discretion for Permits: Applications for permits must demonstrate a legitimate purpose, such as historical or cultural use, and undergo rigorous background checks by the New Zealand Police Arms Licensing Service.
- Border and Customs Enforcement: The New Zealand Customs Service monitors imports, seizing shuriken at ports under the Customs and Excise Act 2018, with penalties including confiscation and prosecution for undeclared items.