About this hunting block

The lake supports up to 166 different bird species, including a large population of the protected grey teal/tete. Make sure you identify your target, particularly when light levels are low.

General information

Te Waihora is New Zealand's most popular recreational duck-shooting area.

You must only use steel shot in this area.

Much of the lake and some land around it are subject to the statutory Te Waihora Joint Management Plan. Commercial hunters need to contact Ngāi Tahu for a permit.

Check for current pesticide operations that may be in progress where you intend to hunt. Pesticide summaries

Hunting Canada geese or feral geese

A DOC game bird permit is required to hunt Canada geese, though a Fish & Game gamebird licence is not required.

Permits

To hunt game birds and Canada geese on Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, you must carry a DOC game bird hunting permit. 

Apply

You'll also need a Fish & Game gamebird licence to hunt game birds on public conservation land. 

Special conditions

• No gamebird hunting is permitted from the rail trail or within 50 metres of the rail trail.
• While crossing the rail trail to access the lake, firearms must be made safe and dogs kept under effective control. 
• On private land next to the rail trail, gamebird hunters are required to exercise responsibility as required under the Arms Act 1983 and as set out in the Arms Code, Firearms Safety Manual issued by New Zealand Police.
• Maimai cannot be erected within the rail trail corridor. 

See Game bird licences and permits for more information about game bird permits. 

Access

Key access sites:

• Johnstons Road, Lakeside Wildlife Management Reserve
• Lake Road South and Dickies Road, ‘Williams’ Wildlife Management Reserve
• Lakeland Road, ‘Wards’ Wildlife Management Reserve
• Selwyn Lake Road, Selwyn Wildlife Management Reserve
• Wolfes, Embankment, and Clarks Roads, Yarrs Flat Wildlife Management Reserve
• Jarvis and Hudson Roads, Greenpark Sands
• Seabridge Road, ‘Lakelands’ Conservation Area
• Sunset Point (pedestrian access across rail trail – beware of rail trail users)
• Kaituna Quarry (pedestrian access across rail trail – beware of rail trail users)
• Bayleys Road, Timber landing area, Kaitorete Spit

Maps

Topo 50 maps BX23, BX24, BY23, BY24

Dogs

• Dogs are allowed for bird retrieval but must be under effective control. 
• Remove any faeces. 
• Algal blooms on the lake can be extremely toxic to dogs. Check the Environment Canterbury website for the latest information regarding the safety of dogs at the lake.