Experienced public servant to lead new firearms regulator
New Zealand has appointed Dr Kelvin Watson as the inaugural Chief Executive of Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand (FSENZ), an independent firearms regulator established under the Arms Act 2026 to replace the Firearms Safety Authority within Police.
Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced Dr Watson’s appointment, emphasising the regulator’s role in rebuilding trust, improving services, and ensuring fair treatment for licensed firearms owners while prioritising public safety. The new agency will operate independently from Police, with decisions made by FSENZ staff without sworn officers. Dr Watson will begin his five-year term on 23 September 2026, leading the establishment of the regulator before its formal launch.
The Arms Act 2026 mandates FSENZ as a separate entity from Police, monitored by the Ministry of Justice, to ensure regulatory independence. This separation aims to allow Police to focus on law enforcement while FSENZ handles licensing and safety oversight. The regulator will operate under a statutory framework, with the Chief Executive appointed by the Governor-General and decisions made independently of ministers.
Dr Watson brings extensive public sector experience, having served as Deputy Secretary (Corporate Services) at the Ministry of Justice since October 2023. His prior roles include senior leadership positions at Statistics New Zealand, Capital and Coast District Health Board, New Zealand Post, and the Open Polytechnic, alongside private sector experience at Ernst and Young and as an independent consultant.
The appointment was made during the pre-election period, with consultation from the Office of the Leader of the Opposition. A five-year term was deemed necessary to ensure stable leadership for establishing FSENZ’s systems, culture, and capabilities from the outset. The new regulator will replace the Firearms Safety Authority, which currently operates within Police.