Media Release
23 January 2007

Mark Renews Call For Crossbow Control

New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark has renewed his call for the Government to introduce a licensing requirement for crossbows to bring them in line with other arms, following the shooting yesterday of a man in Northland.

“These weapons are potentially lethal, with the ability to kill or maim at a range of 60 yards, yet there is no requirement for crossbows to be licensed”, said Mr Mark.

“It is time for the Government to recognise the lethality of these weapons and to bring them under the control of the Arms Act. At present the most serious offence anyone using a crossbow can be charged with is possession of an offensive weapon.

“Only those people deemed to be a ‘fit and proper person’, duly vetted and licensed by Police and subject to the same safety controls and scrutiny that other firearms owners are, should be able to own one of these weapons”, concluded Mr Mark.

ENDS

Super-Wards: Commission Proposes New Boundaries For Auckland

The Local Government Commission presented its proposals on the boundaries and representation arrangements for the new Auckland Council today.

Under the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2009, the Commission is required to determine boundaries for the new Auckland Council, wards and local boards, ward and board names and the number of members per local board. More>>