Hi guys, 

I built an air cannon for doing this. I haven't ever had official confirmation, but I was fairly sure it was OK as the velocity is pretty low. The rules don't quote a figure, but the air gun clause was added to cover the high velocity air weapons after that policeman got shot dead with one. If I shot you with my air cannon you might get winded, but it wouldn't inflict serious damage, it's just a large paintball gun and they are legal.

If you are thinking about one ask the NZ sales rep what the legal status is, they must know as they are selling them. I saw one on trademe a while ago and it was pretty expensive, an air cannon can be constructed pretty cheaply with some parts from you local plumbing supplier.

ANY''  Air gun or device that uses a Pre charge'' Gas or air .ie. (Dive bottle filing/Pump etc) is classed as a Firearm... And as such the operator must have a Fire Arms licence regardless of age and is subject to all rules etc. Includes Paint ball guns which are use outside a PB gaming area...

And ammunition must be kept in a separate place under lock and key. Guess I'm going to have to put a lock on the veggie cupboard !
About 30 years ago ~ I had a visit from my USA cousin . It was him that introduced us to the fun of a potato gun / launcher. No doubt that they were dangerous. They were used in some American homicides. Frozen water was used as the projectile ~ leaving no forensic evidence. We had an absolute ball with them and my friends and I made up many of them over the years. I did have and do have an arms license , but that did not really come into the equation all those years ago. I can't remember an "incident" with a potato launcher back then.
30 years ago, if somebody did something stupid ~ someone would give them a clip around the ear and you would stop it. Now that "clipping around the ear" is no longer acceptable~ society is so much better behaved isn't it.

Kev I didn't mean paint ball guns need a licence just that they are subject to the same rules once out side gaming area's. Don't know if Po'Po' web info is current or they just havn't amended it but present  either one in a threatning manner and see what charges are laid.

I have not long finished making one.I used pressure rated pvc (up to 180psi).All up it cost about 120$ and a lot of research.Ive had it up to 90psi and estimate it is currently launching about 200m,im refining the bait/weight ratios.

Those ones advertised are quite expensive especially when you can build one yourself for a fraction of the price.

The main issue I have is I cant figure out how to get a sand anchor launched.

Lots of fun too.

yeah its cool what can get away with in scouts

I sore this lux at the fielddays its was pretty cool!!!!!

Just get a firearms licence no problems then.

pjc wrote: had a thought,no licence would required as it would be single shot unlike a pre charged air gun.