Names, firearms licence numbers, addresses and bank account numbers appeared to be allegedly publicly accessible on the web page where owners registered to turn in the guns.

New Zealand citizens, including those who had no licence, have been urged to give their firearms this summer, and they still can have them relinquished till the 20th of December.

Holders without licence can hand guns anonymously, but the majority would put their personal details in order to be financially refunded. In November, more than 32 000 guns were already turned in.

The programme and registration have been suspended. The firearms owners have been notified, and the investigation is likely to be launched.