Date:  26 March 2018

Hunters are looking forward to deer breeding season, known as the 'roar or 'rut', which starts late March and goes through April.

During this period, male deer 'roar' to warn off rival stags; making it a good time to hunt.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) reminds hunters intending to hunt on public conservation land to be aware of their obligations.

DOC East Coast Operations Manager John Lucas says rangers will be checking hunting areas and talking to hunters to make sure they have a current hunting permit and comply with the conditions.

 “A hunting permit has information about local hunting safety restrictions and can be obtained from the DOC website or local DOC office.

“Hunters' dogs require a separate dog permit issued from the DOC office, and they must be avian-avoidance certified.

“Hunting and dog permits must be carried by hunters at all times when hunting,” John Lucas says.

Hunters staying in a DOC hut also need to purchase tickets for their stay from the DOC office. Revenue from hut tickets goes towards the maintenance of the huts on the track network.

DOC reminds hunters to adhere to the permit conditions and refrain from hunting in the hours of darkness or 'spotlighting'. This practice is not permitted on public conservation land.

“I urge hunters to take the extra time to identify their target to ensure they get home safely and have a positive experience.”

Information on where to hunt on public conservation land, how to get a permit and safe hunting practice can be found in our Hunting section.

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