'It must work for rural firearm owners': Farming group worried about buyback scheme

A farming group wants the needs of those who live in remote rural locations recognised in the Government's firearms buyback scheme.

Police Minister Stuart Nash and Finance Minister Grant Robertson unveiled the long-awaited buyback scheme on Thursday morning, revealing the amount set aside to pay for it has been boosted above $200 million thanks to a $40 million injection from ACC.

Under the scheme, owners of guns which will soon be illegal will be paid up to 95 percent of their purchase price if they willingly hand them over.

Federated Farmers said the buyback process needed to work for rural firearms owners.
A recent member survey showed that at least twenty percent of Federated Farmers' members had a firearm impacted by the new regulations.

Rural Security Spokesperson Miles Anderson said those owners would be looking for good access and a smooth process for the hand-over of firearms and payment of fair compensation.

Miles Anderson said the scheme needed to recognise the needs of those who live in more remote rural locations.
Miles Anderson said the scheme needed to recognise the needs of those who live in more remote rural locations. Photo credit: Supplied

"The sooner the details of the process, including the number and geographical spread of collection points and events are clear, the better," he said.

He said the scheme needed to recognise the needs of those who live in more remote rural locations. 

"The buyback is likely to be underway at the busiest time of year for farmers," said Anderson. 

"With calving and lambing approaching, the last thing they need at that time of year is a lengthy trip to a major centre to dispose of a firearm."

Anderson said farmers still needed firearms suitable to undertake pest control. 

"Many have indicated that they are waiting for compensation to purchase a replacement firearm that is within the new rules."

Federated Farmers was pleased there would be compensation up to a $300 limit for modifications to some firearms to bring them within the legal requirements. 

"This will address the concerns of some of our members."

Newshub.