!!!Going to New Zeland, Need help fast

H

Horizon_Seeker

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I'm due for a trip to New Zealand, and I don't want to go "naked" (without knife), can some one who's versed in the laws over there give me a piece of advice on what to carry?

I usually carry 2 endura and a multitool all the time in the US, do I need to change the routine?

Thanks.

email me unicorn@ucla.edu if you want to do this privately.
 
Hi,

Given that it is Sunday night here in NZ, I can't give you a detailed summary of the NZ laws, but here are an initial few thoughts:

- There are laws against inmporting some knives (autos; double-edged knives; ballistic knives; knives that are disguised as other things; etc) the usual sort of things.

- I have a feeling there are laws against "concealed" weapons and "offensive" weapons of various sorts - I think in the context of a crime situation.

- I usually carry something like an SAK in my pocket; a CRKT lockable folder on my belt; and sometimes a Leatherman on my belt. I have not had any issues with these, and several police have seen my kit, and I have had no problems.

I'll try to get more detail to you tomorrow.

Siggy
 
I was in New Zealand for a week last year on a business trip, and I experienced a very laid-back atmosphere, like an old british town. I was carrying all my knives without any problems, and I did not sense any "security paranoia" even when I boarded two local flights. New Zealanders are nice and friendly people, and they welcome you with a smile.
As for carrying knives, my feelings (and talks with local people)suggest common sense. If you are a peaceful person and not looking for trouble, then you won't have problems carrying utility pocket knives.
 
Actually New Zealand has a "reasonable excuse" law - meaning you can carry whatever you like provided you have a reasonable excuse. Thus, if you are on the way to the farm or going out fishing (and is obvious you are doing so), having a knife on your belt is ok (tho you may draw some strange looks.) If I was on my way to sword training I can have my katana on me. It's a common sense law, but there are no provisions for self defense carry.

I personally have an Endura or a Gunsite II as my EDC - I use it for opening my mail and opening those darn photcopy paper boxes!

Daggers, push daggers and autos are all out, but if you are bringing an Endura and a multitool - no probs at all. Just dress sesnsibly and don't wave it around.

Multitools are actually fairly common here.

Have a great trip!!
 
Hi,

Following up on my earlier response, I had a brief informal discussion with our local Police Arms Officer, who gave the following general advice:

- if you import or carry a normal sporting/utility/pocket knife "for
good reason" there should not be any problem - note: being a collector,is not in itself a good reason.

- don't import or carry any "provocative" knives - ie, those knives
specifically designed for attack, fighting, combat, concealment, or that have an automatic action.

- it seems that in general, it is OK to import "folding pocket
knives with a blade less that 10 cm" (other than when they are those
types mentioned above?). This 10 cm limit only seems to apply to importing a knife, and not to carrying one?

- you may be asked on to entry to NZ, to undertake that you will
take the knife out again. The intent of this is allow short-term visitors to bring in a dubious knife, as long as they don't dispose of it NZ.

- it is possible to get pre-approval from the Police to import knives that would not otherwise be allowed in, but the process for that can take time. As a collector, I have obtained such approval in the past.

As in the US, NZ law can be vague and grey in this area, and the Police have a wide range of interpretation and discretion, which can be in your favour, but may not be. If in doubt, be conservative!

Good luck, and have a good time in NZ.

Siggy
 
As usual there is a lot of "interpretation" - but since you mention Endura and multi tools specifically, they are fine. BTW the 10cm folding blade rule applies to double edged folders only as per a Customs Import Prohibition order! I have imported Vaquero Grandes :)

So for import, just keep the stuff in your checked in luggage and I personally declare it when I arrive - "pocket knife" and "multi tool" and I have never had problems. I assume you are not bringing in knuckledusters, sword canes, daggers or blackjacks!

For carry, "reasonable excuse" applies.
Cheers,
 
excellent! it's good to hear I can bring the enduras with me. thanks to all of y'all for your help. after NZ, I'm going to China to visit family and friends, can't wait!
 
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