What is covered by a small game permit
The small game hunting permit covers:
- Rabbit
- Hares
Cost
Small game hunting permits are usually free.
Special conditions
When applying, DOC may add conditions based on the species, location, and safety needs. For example:
- Firearms: Use only a .22 rim-fire rifle, .22 hornet or shotgun
- Restricted hours: Hunt only at certain times
- Distance: No hunting within 300 metres of neighbouring properties
- Dogs: Rules vary by site
Special conditions are likely to reflect the level of public use at a site, its conservation values, management activities, terrain, boundaries, time of year and the interests of neighbouring landowners.
Where you can hunt small game
Check with the local DOC office to see if small game hunting opportunities are available – not all regions have suitable areas.
Permits are issued by the local DOC office. You need your own permit, whether you are by yourself or part of a hunting party. Hunting without a permit is a breach of the Wild Animal Control, Wildlife and Conservation Acts.
When getting your permit, you'll also be given information about safety considerations, access issues, and so on for a particular area.
Regional notes – not a whole list
This is not a list of all places you can't hunt small game. Check with your local DOC office to see what small game hunting opportunities are nearby.
North Island
Auckland and Whangārei regions
- No small game hunting permits available.
Waikato region
- No small game hunting permits available.
Safety rules
- No night hunting: Hunting during the hours of darkness (30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise) is strictly prohibited on public conservation land – it is illegal and endangers others.
- Ricochet risk: Be careful when hunting on riverbeds or rocky areas.
- Always follow firearms safety rules.