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Ammunition / Bullets

 
Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Ammunition / Bullets
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

Carriage of ammunition is permitted only as checked-in luggage if:

  • the passenger has a gun licence
  • the airline approves carriage
  • the ammunition is Division1.4S, securely packaged, and does not exceed 5 kilograms.

If you are un-licensed and found in possession of ammunition at an airport the NZ Police will be notified.

If you are a licensed firearm holder and you have not complied with the restrictions your ammunition will be seized.

All novelty items [e.g. jewellery, pen and USB sticks] designed to look like a bullet and empty shell casings are considered to be imitation ammunition and are allowed in checked luggage but not carry-on.

What are the restrictions?

  • Carriage of ammunition is permitted only as checked-in luggage
  • You must have a gun licence
  • the airline approves carriage
  • the ammunition is Division1.4S, securely packaged, and does not exceed 5 kilograms.
  • Leave all novelty bullet shaped items at home.

Why is this item restricted?

  • Ammunition if not packed correctly will present a risk to passengers and crew.
  • Imitation bullets are restricted to checked luggage to reduce the opportunity for another passenger to mistake them for live ammunition.

If you are in possession of ammunition without the appropriate licence and airline approval you may be committing a criminal offence.


What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

  • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
  • your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

AvSec x-ray bags going onto aircraft to ensure there is nothing dangerous in them. If something comes up on the x-ray that needs checking, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous good or prohibited item will be removed, with a bag search notification form left within the bag.

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