FBI Director Kash Patel presented inoperable replica pistols to senior New Zealand security officials during a July visit. The gifts, deemed illegal under New Zealand's strict gun laws, were subsequently destroyed by authorities. Patel was in Wellington to inaugurate the FBI's first standalone office in the country. The incident highlights New Zealand's stringent firearms regulations, which were tightened after the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.