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Pepper spray and Mace

 
Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Pepper spray and Mace
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

No. Pepper [OC] spray and other disabling weapons that use chemicals to cause harm to persons are forbidden. These include Mace, teargas, acids, and animal repellent containing OC spray.

What are the restrictions?

If you have these types of weapons leave them at home.

Why is this item restricted?

It is a criminal offence to possess these weapons at airports.

Possession of disabling weapons is an offence punishable by a term of imprisonment and may result in:

  • the NZ Police being alerted
  • your arrest
  • you missing your flight
  • the weapon being seized

What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

  • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
  • your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

AvSec X-ray bags going onto aircraft to ensure there is nothing dangerous in them.

  • Checked luggage - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous good or prohibited item will be removed, with a bag search notification form left within the bag.
  • Carry-on - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating an AvSec Officer will request a bag search, and the bag will be opened and searched in your presence. If any dangerous goods or prohibited items are found, you will be asked to relinquish them.  If you refuse:
    • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
    • your airline will be advised of your refusal

What if my items are removed?

For more information, see Retrieving your removed items.

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