The Government's gun buyback scheme is being described by the Police Association as a starting point.

Compensation will range from 25 percent of the base price to 95 percent, depending on the condition of the gun.

Owners will also receive up to 70 percent for various accessories and bullets, plus a $300 payment to modify an illegal gun to make it legal.

No compensation will be given to businesses for loss of income, or for those firearms that aren't licensed.

Chris Cahill told Mike Hosking it was always going to be hard to please everyone.

"We've got to remember that the vast majority of licensed firearm owners are honest, law-abiding citizens. While they will be annoyed, and I understand that, they will oblige and hand these in, I believe."

He says they know that the scheme won't eliminate gun theft but it will make a difference.

"At least we start to get control of the number of firearms in New Zealand, and that's the real issue here."