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Is pepper spray illegal in New Zealand?
Partly. Pepper spray is restricted in New Zealand. A restricted weapon: civilians need a police permit.
OC spray is a restricted weapon under para 8 of the Arms (Restricted Weapons and Specially Dangerous Airguns) Order 1984 (NZ Police OC policy); possession needs a Police permit (NZ Customs). 2026 OIA request on civilian legalisation, no change found. Permit route -> amber.
Source: Arms Order 1984; NZ Customs
Banned (11)Restricted (9)Allowed
- New Zealand is one of 11 countries where pepper spray is banned, and 9 more restrict it.
- In Oceania: banned in 0 of 6 countries.
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Other countries that ban pepper spray
Malta
Luxembourg
Belgium
Netherlands
Norway
Denmark
Ireland
Singapore
Vietnam
United Kingdom
CanadaAll 11 on the map ›What else is banned in New Zealand
Pit bullsPhones in schoolsPlastic bagsSpankingAnti-personnel landminesAzodicarbonamide (the yoga mat chemical)AsbestosCorporal punishment in schoolsSex selectionWhale meatCluster munitionsEverything for New Zealand ›
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