About Nicholas Taylor

I have had a lifelong interest in firearms and have held a firearms licence for almost 30 years. Since becoming a barrister in 1997 I have rapidly become proficient in firearms law and legislation in New Zealand and its unique requirements. I quickly realised that firearms law was specialised and complex and local Arms Officers had numerous and varied viewpoints and interpretations of the law.

I have become very skilled at firearm identification and classification, and developed extensive knowledge in regards to gunsmithing, ammunition, ballistics, firearm function and operation. I have read widely and have expertise in regards to ballistics, metallurgy and forensic aspects of firearms. I have practical experience in all aspects of metalworking and machine tool engineering. This knowledge is vital in order to properly cross examine police expert witnesses in court and understand the intricacies of each case.

In the last 20 years I have specialised primarily in criminal law and civil litigation, and appeared in the courts in New Zealand and the United Kingdom almost on a daily basis and in over 4000 court appearances. I now regularly appear in the District Court, High Court and the Court of Appeal in New Zealand.

I am a member of Civic Chambers Barristers, based in Auckland City, and will undertake cases throughout New Zealand.

I will happily come and speak to your specific organisation in regards to the New Zealand firearms legislative environment as it affects your group or club, for no charge.

You can read my recent profile on the Law Society website here