The Friend Character Reference Letter For Firearm is a crucial component of New Zealand's firearms licensing system, designed to support the assessment of individuals applying for firearms licenses. This document became particularly significant following the 2019 amendments to the Arms Act, which strengthened the licensing requirements. The letter must be written by a person who has known the applicant for a substantial period, typically at least two years, and can provide specific examples of the applicant's character, responsibility, and attitude toward safety. The referee must not be a family member but should have sufficient personal knowledge of the applicant to make meaningful observations about their suitability to possess firearms. The document plays a vital role in the licensing authority's evaluation of whether an applicant meets the 'fit and proper person' criterion required by New Zealand law.

1. Referee Details: Full name, occupation, contact information, and any relevant qualifications or positions of authority of the person writing the reference

2. Date and Addressing: Current date and proper addressing to the Firearms Licensing Officer

3. Relationship Context: Nature and duration of relationship with the applicant, including how well and in what capacity the referee knows the applicant

4. Character Assessment: Specific examples and observations of the applicant's responsible behavior, maturity, and sound judgment

5. Safety Consciousness: Observations about the applicant's approach to safety in general and specific instances demonstrating responsible behavior

6. Legal Standing: Confirmation of no known criminal behavior or concerns about the applicant's character

7. Closing Statement: Clear statement of support for the application and willingness to be contacted for further information