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INTRODUCTION
Do you enjoy the thrill of the chase - the
excitement of stalking big game animals? New Zealand is renowned
as a hunter’s paradise where some of the best prize trophies
in the world can be taken.
The New Zealand Information Network has compiled this summary of
Hunting Regions to allow hunting enthusiasts to make the most of
their time in the outdoors.
This country was originally a land populated exclusively by
birds. Many found their wings were superfluous given the complete
absence of predators and land mammals, hence the evolution of the
now extinct giant moa and the iconic flightless kiwi.
In the last 200 years, settlers have introduced a Noah’s Ark
of small and large game animals as well as a bevy of waterfowl
and upland game birds. These introduced species have not merely
thrived, but have multiplied to reach pest proportions and become
a menace to farming and forestry operations. Control measures are
essential to keep these creatures in check and private
recreational hunting is positively encouraged. Hunters with a
current firearms licence can obtain permits free of charge at
Department of Conservation (DOC) centres. There is a network of
backcountry huts available for use at nominal charges of $4 to
$14 per night.
 Most recreational hunting is carried out in the 14
National Parks and 20
Forest Parks, which are
mountainous regions demanding a good level of fitness and
stamina. The parks have DOC Visitor Centres near the main park
entrances.
Overseas visitors should declare their firearms to New Zealand
Customs on arrival. Customs will then refer the owner to the
airport police for a temporary firearms licence. If you come
without a firearm and want to go on a hunting trip, then you will
need a professional guide who will obtain the necessary hunting
permits.
 Fish and Game NZ are responsible for sport fishing
(trout and salmon) and for hunting waterfowl and upland game
birds. Permits for freshwater fishing and also for game bird
hunting can be obtained from most hunting, fishing and sporting
goods stores throughout the country. The staff can provide useful
information about regulations, access rights and codes of
conduct.
If you require guided hunting, the DOC centres and any of the 100
Visitor Information centres throughout the country will have
contact details. Guides access the remote backcountry areas by
4WD vehicle, fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter for one day trips
or multi-day safaris. Most guided hunting is carried out in
safari parks or on private land for a daily fee. The current
trend is for hunting on private game ranches at a set price per
trophy animal taken.
New Zealand Information Network wishes all visitors the best of
luck. Good hunting!
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