The annual game bird hunting season will get underway around the country this Saturday, May 1. Last year’s hunting season was delayed by Covid-19 lockdowns, whereas this season appears to be all go - much to the delight of keen hunters.

Early preparation is the key to getting everything right on the big day, says Fish & Game.

Hunters should now have their location for the season all sorted, the maimai tidied up and ready for a final touch-up before the decoys go out on Friday night, the pooch is trained and the hunters have got their ‘eye-in’ by shooting a few clay birds.

The duck season is a popular tradition amongst kiwis, all enjoying the chance to get out with friends and family. Hunters are reminded to pick up their licences and to carry them while hunting and review the rules and bag limits for their particular area.

Additionally, hunters need to check their ammunition complies with new rules around the possession and use of lead shot within 200 metres of open water; lead shot is not permitted except in .410 cartridges.

In parts of the country whio (blue duck) populations are increasing in response to predator control, and birds are being seen from time to time on farmland in the vicinity of forested streams. They commonly do low level flights up and down streams in early morning and evening meaning a quick shooter can easily mistake them in low light. 

This threatened species is fully protected, and apart from setting conservation efforts back a step, killing one can mean a $100,000 fine. Please take care to identify your target beyond all doubt so whio, along with all of our other protected birds, are not mistakenly shot. 

“We encourage everyone heading out shooting this season to refresh themselves on the seven rules of firearm safety ,” says Acting Police Superintendent Mike McIlraith.

“It’s also a really good idea to make sure you’re familiar with your firearm and have checked it to ensure it’s working correctly, especially if it’s been in secure storage since last season. Where it has a safety catch, ensure that it is operating properly.

“Of course, the best safety catch of all is not having your finger inside the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.”

Anybody handling a firearm should always treat it as loaded; that means always pointing the firearm in a safe direction and checking your firing zone.

“Please make sure your firearms are never left unattended in your vehicle.

“We know that going hunting with your mates is fun and having a drink afterwards with your mates is a good way to celebrate the day. Please just keep these two activities separate.

“We want safety to be your focus this duck shooting season, so you and your mates have a safe and successful season.”

More hunting safety information can be found here.

Hunters of all levels of experience are encouraged to look at this material.

Seven Basic Firearms Safety Rules:

1. Treat every firearm as loaded

2. Always point firearms in a safe direction

3. Load a firearm only when ready to fire

4. Identify your target beyond all doubt

5. Check your firing zone

6. Store firearms and ammunition safely

7. Avoid alcohol and drugs when handling firearms.