Intelligent people in modern civilised society have left those ancient reactions behind and treat all people with equality and respect. Ownership and use of firearms in New Zealand is a privilege not a right. A hunting rifle is a precision instrument designed to deliver a single accurate shot while a military style semi-automatic rifle is exactly the opposite and as much use as a rolling pin for recreational hunting. If genuine hunters are asked to surrender their semi-automatic rifles the majority no doubt will comply particularly if there is a buy back scheme. Responsible hunters and firearm owners should support the Government's move to outlaw semi-automatic rifles, particularly as little .22 "rabbit rifle" and self-loading shotguns for gamebird hunting will not be included in the ban.

Source: Stuff March 22, 2019 15:56 UTC