Survey shows New Zealanders back even stronger gun laws
A large majority of New Zealanders support further strengthening of gun laws in line with Australia, including limits on how many firearms can be owned, according to survey research commissioned by Gun Control NZ.
68% of adults in New Zealand support further strengthening, with only 15% opposed. A majority of people with firearms in their household (54%) are in favour of strengthening the laws, with only 24% opposed.
The survey also shows that 70% of adults in New Zealand support limiting the number of firearms that a person can own, with only 13% opposed. This policy is also supported by a majority of people with firearms in their household (53%) with only 11% opposing it.
Australian state and federal governments are introducing gun law reforms in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, including limiting the number of firearms a person can own, banning the import of particular types of guns and parts and tightening eligibility for firearms licenses.
“New Zealanders clearly understand that our laws are not strong enough to protect us from a Bondi-style attack”, says Nik Green, co-founder of Gun Control NZ.
“Parliament is currently considering new firearms laws for New Zealand. This is the perfect opportunity for MPs to heed the will of the people and learn from the tragedy in Australia,” says Philippa Yasbek, co-founder of Gun Control NZ. “We urge the Government and Members of Parliament to improve public safety by limiting the number of firearms that license holders can own.”
The research was commissioned by Gun Control NZ and undertaken by Horizon Research. The results are based on an online survey of 1,051 adults in New Zealand conducted from 20 to 27 February 2026. The full set of results and supporting data tables are available here.
Media coverage
The Post 24 March 2026 https://www.thepost.co.nz/politics/360972549/exclusive-nz-public-backs-even-tougher-gun-laws-after-bondi-shooting-survey