Hi Guys
There was some discussion on the transport of pistols in the recent committee meeting, so I thought I would share what I know of it.
The guidance can be found at this link – https://www.police.govt.nz/about-us/publication/firearms-and-ammunition-secure-storage-guidance
Section 3 covers traveling with firearms. I will be specific and cover what relates to travelling to the range.
3.1.1 Overview 1. Regulation 19B requires firearms licence holders that are transporting firearms or ammunition in a vehicle on a road or public access way, unless otherwise permitted by a member of the Police, to meet the following requirements:
(a) Firearms and ammunition must be concealed from view from outside the vehicle.
(b) Firearms must be made inoperable if readily possible by removing the bolt or other vital part. The part should be kept on the licence holder’s person or stored out of sight separately from the firearms. If this is not possible (e.g. the firearm is a lever action or semi-automatic or single shot firearm), then the firearms must be fitted with a trigger lock or travel in a locked case or carry bag.
(c) Firearms must not be loaded with ammunition in the breech, barrel chamber or magazine.
(d) Ammunition must be stored separately from any firearms and be in a locked glovebox or similar storage area where practicable.
Trigger locks are covered in section 2.
1. The use of trigger or action locks as additional security may be used in conjunction with the secure storage methods described in this guidance.
2. Without the key or combination for the lock the firearm is not able to be used immediately. There are different types of locks that are inexpensive and simple to use.
3. Cables or padlocks threaded through the trigger guard and behind the trigger can also be effective.
4. There are a broader range of trigger lock options to align with the wide range of firearms and magazine types available in NZ. The traditional trigger locks are fit for purpose and should continue to be used. In addition other locking systems (action locks) that prevent the firearm from being able to fire are acceptable., (I have altered this for clarity and removed the photos, which can be seen in the link)
Ideally Police like a locked case to be secured to the vehicle, but you can see this is not a requirement of the current document, the ammunition box is not required to be secured either.
3.1.2 Unattended Vehicles 1. Any firearms or ammunition may be left unattended in a vehicle during a break in a journey for up to 60 minutes provided: (a) The licence holder remains in the immediate area or vicinity of the vehicle. (b) The firearms or ammunition are still secured and out of sight. (c) If possible, vital parts of the firearms remain in the licence holder’s possession. (d) The vehicle is locked, windows are closed and keys remain in the licence holder’s possession.
I hope this helps clarity what is required by Police policy.
All the best
Michael
President Levin Pistol Club