What is Airsoft?Airsoft is a game similar to early paintball (Bush ball) using low powered guns that use air to fire small ball bearings instead of paintballs. With these guns, various scenarios are played in a mock combat environment much like paintball. Who can play?Any responsible person over 18 may own an Airsoft gun and play. Any responsible person person aged 16-18 needs a firearms license to own an Airsoft gun and their parents permission to play. How old are the players?We have players of all ages including 16 year olds with firearms licenses and their parents often play too. Are there any female players?A few. Airsoft is a game suited to anyone regardless of size or strength. In NZ there are several women participating in the sport, with numbers constantly growing. Females also play free at all ASA events to encourage more into the sport. What are the games like?This can vary from two equal teams competing against each other to capture their opponents flags, to defending fortified positions, battles within buildings and trenches, forests and hills, large teams hunting small teams or multiple teams engaging each other - in short there are a myriad of different game scenarios which will vary from event to event. Numbers can vary from as low as 10 to as many as 60+ depending on people's availability, weather etc. Milsim is a phrase you will often hear, it is an abbreviation of military simulation and generally refers to more serious games in which the scenarios and game play are designed to mimic real combat as much as possible. Where/how often are the games held?There are both woodland and urban sites we play on. Games typically run between 10am-4pm and days vary from club to club, some play every weekend, others monthly, some play on a random basis from week to week. Airsoft Auckland aim to run games every fortnight. Airsoft in NZ is quickly becoming a very social game. From time to time large events are organized with open invitations to members of other clubs. What are the rules?A full breakdown of the rules can be found here but the basic rules are always wear safety goggles, always play fair, be honest when hit and follow the specific rules of each club. Game rules will vary from game to game but are always explained before each game. If in doubt about something, ask someone. What do I need to play?We recommend you bring a minimum of:
We can provide you with any other kit you will need to play:
As you become more involved you may wish to add a set of camouflage clothing and some form of webbing to carry equipment. What does it cost to play?ASA games typically cost $20 for non members and we hire out airsoft guns for $20 for the day, and a bag of around 4000 BBs will cost about $20 which will last you for many games. Voluntary equipment can run anywhere from $100 to several thousand dollars depending on how much and what equipment you want to buy but it is not essential and totally up to the player. Where do I get the Airsoft guns and equipment to play?Each airsoft club should have an armourer who can help you with purchasing an airsoft gun. Never attempt to purchase an airsoft gun from abroad and have it shipped in. Customs will seize and destroy it. The only acceptable methods of importing are via the club armourer. Alternatively you can purchase a gun in the usual legal way from New Zealand dealers. For other equipment you can look at our buying guides. PLEASE NOTE :Fully automatic guns (including airguns) are classed as a restricted weapon in NZ! This means AEGs (automatic airsoft gun) are banned for anyone not in possession of the appropriate firearms license. Only SEGs (semi automatic gun) can be used and can be imported via your local club armourer or bought within New Zealand.
How do I join a club?Club membership varies, as do fees. If you are interested in joining ASA you can find out more information here. Here is a list of all the affiliated ASNZ (Airsoft New Zealand) clubs in the country. The usual method of joining in is to simply contact a club member or leader any way (such as phone, email or via the forum) and tell them you are interested in giving it a go. Any club should be happy to show you the sport and get you involved. I have an airsoft gun and want to make it compliant?We certainly help. Make contact and we can help you out. Do you have teams?It depends on the club. ASA currently has several teams particularly involved in the mil-sim system called NOMAD, but the majority of players are not in one. Can I just come and watch an ASA game?Sure. Spectators do not pay any fee and will be supplied safety goggles. Get in contact with us so we can make sure we have the equipment ready for you and know you are coming. For any other questions, you can privately contact anyone in the ASA committee or use any of the club contact details. |