The NZ arms Code states:

People who have:

• history of violence or
• repeated involvement with drugs or
• been irresponsible with alcohol or
• a personal or social relationship with people who may be deemed to be unsuitable to obtain access to firearms or
• indicates [sic] an intent to use firearms for self defence

may find it difficult to satisfy the Police that they are fit and proper to have a firearm.

It goes on to say: "Self-defence is not a valid reason to possess firearms. The law does not permit the possession of firearms ‘in anticipation’ that a firearm may need to be used in self-defence."