Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Pepper spray and Mace
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

No. Pepper [OC] spray and other disabling weapons that use chemicals to cause harm to persons are forbidden. These include Mace, teargas, acids, and animal repellent containing OC spray.

What are the restrictions?

If you have these types of weapons leave them at home.

Why is this item restricted?

It is a criminal offence to possess these weapons at airports.

Possession of disabling weapons is an offence punishable by a term of imprisonment and may result in:

  • the NZ Police being alerted
  • your arrest
  • you missing your flight
  • the weapon being seized


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.

What if my items are removed?

If you want to retrieve an item that has been removed, please contact your airline as soon as possible. The airline will dispose of items within three to seven days, so the sooner you make contact, the better your chance of having the items returned to you. For more information, see:

Retrieving your removed items