Firearms security vital at home and away

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

People packing up and heading away for the Christmas and New Year period have been reminded to ensure any firearms are kept safe while they are on holiday.

“Getting ready to head away for holidays can be a stressful time,” said Te Tari Pūreke Firearms Safety Authority partnerships director Mike McIlraith.

“However, it’s important to take time to consider how firearms and ammunition will be transported, stored, and used safely during your holidays. If you’re looking to travel with firearms, or you’ll be leaving them at home while you’re away, now is a good time to start thinking about logistics, before heading off on that well-earned summer break.”

He reminded people travelling with firearms they can never be left in a vehicle overnight, must be transported out of sight and must either be inoperable (bolt out or trigger lock in) or in a locked container when travelling.  Ammunition must be transported separately from the firearm, and in a locked container if practical. Firearms can only be left unattended in a locked vehicle for 60 minutes (while you’re nearby).

People should think about what to do with the firearm once they get to their holiday destination.

“If you use a regular hut or bach, instal a gun safe, a firearm rack or secure cable system. Steel cables and padlocks can help secure your firearm to the framing of a building, pipes or built-in furniture. Store vital parts and ammunition separately from your firearm.”

If people leave firearms at home, firearms and ammunition storage should be made even more secure.

“Take the keys with you and cover up gun safes and ammunition storage so they’re not easily visible. Hide other valuable items like tools or electronics. Thieves may start off looking for one thing and leave with your firearms instead.

“If you’re heading away for an extended period, think about the security of your firearms. Consider installing an alarm, security cameras or sensor lights.

“Put things in place to make it look like you’re home. For example, arrange for someone to mow your lawn and collect the mail and have internal lights on a timer.

“Consider registering your firearms before you go on holiday. If you do get burgled and your firearms are stolen, the registry will provide an accurate picture of which firearms were taken.”

Finally, he reminded gun-owners “firearms and alcohol don’t mix”.