Registered counsellor appointed to Minister’s Arms Advisory Group

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has welcomed the appointment of Southland-based registered counsellor Kathryn Wright to the Minister's Arms Advisory Group (MAAG).

"Kathryn will bring valuable practical experience to the Advisory Group through both her work as a registered counsellor and rural mental health practitioner, and her service on the board of Mental Hunts," says Mrs McKee.

"Mental Hunts is a national mental health charity that works closely with firearms users, particularly in rural communities. Kathryn's experience on its board means she understands both the mental health challenges people can face and the importance of engaging constructively with the firearms community.

"That practical perspective will be valuable as we continue building a firearms system that keeps New Zealanders safe while treating licenced firearms owners fairly and with respect.

"The Minister's Arms Advisory Group plays an important role providing advice on firearms legislation, regulation, safety, and the operation of New Zealand's firearms system.

Ms Wright lives in Te Anau and holds a BA in Psychology and Sociology, a Bachelor of Social Services (Counselling), and a Master of Professional Practice (Counselling). She is a PhD candidate at the University of Otago and a registered counsellor with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors.

The MAAG consists of a Chair and up to eight members and is required under the Arms Act 2026 to include a balance of people from firearm-owning and non-firearm-owning communities. Ms Wright does not hold a firearms licence.

Ms Wright replaces Michelle (Mitch) Roderick-Hall and Dr Catherine Stephenson, non-firearm-owning members who resigned from the Advisory Group in June.

"I thank Mitch and Catherine for the time and expertise they contributed to the Advisory Group," says Mrs McKee.

Ms Wright has been appointed by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith for a three-year term commencing 12 August 2026.

More information about the Minister's Arms Advisory Group is available on the Ministry of Justice website.