In this section:

Hunting in conservation areas brochure

Published:

July 2010

This brochure provides general information about recreational hunting in conservation areas, including the species you can hunt, what permits you need, and safety information when you're out in the bush.

Brochure cover showing trophy wapiti bull, red deer stag cross, Fiordland National Park valley. Photo: Rob Suisted.
Brochure cover showing a trophy wapiti
bull, red deer stag cross

Summary

Hunting is a hugely popular activity in New Zealand. There are countless places to choose from in Department of Conservation (DOC) managed areas, and plenty of different species to hunt, including deer, pigs, tahr, goats, chamois, wallabies, and gamebirds.

DOC actively encourages recreational hunting on conservation land, supplies hunting permits, has an extensive hut and track network and has a wide range of hunting information available at DOC offices and on this website.

The brochure covers:

  • Introduction to hunting on conservation land
    • Native species
    • Overseas visitors
    • What species can you hunt?
  • Plan and prepare
    • Getting there
    • Join a club
    • What gear do you need?
    • Safety is your responsibility
    • Weather
    • Hazards
    • Getting lost
    • Injuries
    • Hypothermia
    • Personal locator beacons
    • Communications
    • Other hunters
  • Permits and licences
    • Hunting permits
    • Firearms licence
    • Gamebird licence
    • Hunting with dogs
  • Pest control using pesticides
  • Introducing others to hunting
  • Look after the backcountry
  • Firearms
  • Being visible
  • Food safety
  • Backcountry accommodation
  • Best time to hunt
  • Further information

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Publication information

Published by:

National Office
Phone: +64 4 471 0726
Email: enquiries@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

Contact

National Office
Phone: +64 4 471 0726
Email: enquiries@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

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Learn more

Hunting in DOC-managed conservation lands

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Contacts

Authors and others wanting to use DOC recreation information in publications should contact recreation@doc.govt.nz

Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai