The Police Association is backing a proposal for tighter rules around gun sales.

The law and order select committee has recommended an overhaul of our firearm laws, including banning gang members and other 'high risk' people from owning guns.

NZ Police Association President Chris Cahill told Mike Hosking they are welcoming the recommendations as a good first step.

"I'm seeing daily reports of firearms being found in situations where it's just luck that members of the public or police officers haven't been shot, so there really is a need for this tightening up," he said.

Cahill said right now they've got no idea how many are in criminal hands.

"Over 40,000 firearms, including air rifles, are imported to New Zealand last year. No record of where they are once they're important and sold."

LISTEN ABOVE AS POLICE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT CHRIS CAHILL SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING