Legislation for tighter gun laws: Bill proposing firearms register, tighter licensing introduced to Parliament

The Government has announced the final legislation for the second round of gun law changes, which will be introduced to Parliament on Friday.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern introduced the final Arms Legislation Bill, which includes a register to track firearms, new offences and penalties, and a change to the length of time of issue for a licence from 10 to five-years.

A person found guilty of selling or supplying a firearm to someone without a licence, will now be liable for two years jail time, or a $20,000 fine.

The bill will have its first reading on September 24.

It's the second set of gun law changes - after banning military-style semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles - following the Christchurch terror attack on March 15.

Ardern said the Government is now taking the next step; preventing firearms from reaching criminals.

She reiterated owning a firearm is a privilege, not a right.

"We know that the majority of gun crime is committed by people without a licence, with firearms that have either been stolen or traded illegally.

"Our focus since March 15 has been on ensuring that our communities are as protected as they can be from the potential of another attack like the horrific one we witnessed in Christchurch."

Police Minister Stuart Nash said the Arms Act 1983 is no longer fit for purpose.

"Parliament will review the Bill five years after it has been enacted so we can be sure it is working how we intend it to."

Nash said more than 18,200 firearms offences have been committed between 2015 and 2018.

It was important the Government heard from all New Zealanders on the matter, he said.

"I also encourage people to make submissions through the select committee process, we want to hear your voice."

Newshub.