This hunting area is covered by a ‘game bird hunting permit’ and ‘open area permit’. See permit information below.
Bendigo Scenic Reserve is now an open hunting area
Bendigo Scenic Reserve was previously covered by restricted hunting permits. On 18 June 2026 the hunting area was moved into the open area hunting permit. All permits issued from 18 June 2026 will include details for this hunting area.
Active open hunting permits issued before 18 June 2026 that include the Lower South Island region will not show details for this hunting area, but hunting is authorised for the hunting area under these permits. See the special conditions that apply to hunting in this hunting area.
About this hunting block
Animal present are gamebirds, rabbits, and limited goats.
General information
This 627 ha block lies on the lower slopes of the Dunstan Mountains immediately above the grape growing areas of Bendigo and west of School Creek. The area to the east of School Creek is a historic reserve on which hunting is prohibited.
Bendigo Scenic Reserve is mostly kānuka forest with denser vegetation in the gullies.
This is a well-used public area and you must take extreme care when hunting to ensure the safety of others. Hunting is prohibited in the neighbouring Bendigo Historic Reserve.
Permits
The Bendigo Scenic Reserve hunting block is open access – get it online.
Game bird and small game
For small game or game bird you will require a game bird and small game permit. Contact your local area office to obtain a small game or game bird permit.
For gamebirds, you'll also need a game bird licence from Fish & Game and a firearms licence.
Fish & Game New Zealand fishing and game bird hunting licences
Access
16 km north of Cromwell on State Highway 8, turn right onto Bendigo Loop Road to the site of Bendigo town, then turn right up the hill following the ‘Historic gold mining site’ sign. When you enter the historic reserve there is a track off to the right that leads to a fence and stile marking the start of the Scenic Reserve hunting block.
Maps
NZTopo50 series: CB13
Know before you go
Dogs
Dogs are allowed in this block with a hunting permit. If accessing the block over private land, you must have landholder permission to take your dog.
Help control wallabies in this area by reporting sightings
Wallabies can displace other species, affect pastures and native species' habitats.
They also potentially impact production and native ecosystems.
Report your sighting online – it only takes a few minutes.
You can also report wallaby sightings by calling 0800 80 99 66.
DOC Customer Service Centre
| Phone: | 0800 275 362 |
| Email: | alexandra@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | Kā Moana Haehae / Alexandra Office |