Full Breakdown
Brian Tamaki’s Firearms Licence Revoked After “Fit and Proper” Review
8/9/2026, 11:15:59 AM
Core Event: Licence Revoked Following June 30 Suspension
Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki was told that his firearms licence had been permanently revoked. The decision follows a temporary suspension issued on June 30, after police concluded that Tamaki was no longer a “fit and proper person” to possess a firearm. Under New Zealand law, a licence may be revoked when a holder fails to meet the legal standard set out in section 24A of the Arms Act. Tamaki is now prohibited from owning, possessing, or even using a firearm under the supervision of another licensed holder.
Background & Context: Hunting History and Recent Controversial Comments
Tamaki, who has described himself as a lifelong hunter, said he began hunting at age 16 while working on a farm and in forestry. He has long hunted for meat rather than trophies. In recent weeks, Tamaki posted a podcast in which he sharply criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of targeting Christians and allowing churches to be razed. He further suggested a “tit-for-tat” response that would see mosques and temples in New Zealand burned down. Tamaki later claimed the remarks were figurative and that diplomatic pressure from India influenced the licence action.
Official Statements & Responses
Superintendent Bruce Bird, acting executive director of the Firearms Safety Authority, declined to comment on the individual case but explained the general legal framework:
> “However, speaking generally, decisions about suspending or revoking a firearms licence are based on a legal standard of whether a person is ‘fit and proper’ to possess a firearm.” — Bruce Bird, acting executive director, Firearms Safety Authority
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’ve always been a hunter. [I] hunt for meat, not for really trophies.” — Brian Tamaki, Destiny Church leader
- “However, speaking generally, decisions about suspending or revoking a firearms licence are based on a legal standard of whether a person is ‘fit and proper’ to possess a firearm.” — Bruce Bird, acting executive director, Firearms Safety Authority
