There is approximately 200,000 ha of public conservation land within the Motueka area. It covers much of the upper reaches of main rivers such as the Wairoa, Motueka, Wangapeka and Baton Rivers.
These river valleys and forest covered ranges offer some great hunting in moderately challenging country. Some alpine areas and mountains rise to over 1800 m.
Deer, goats and pigs occur in low numbers in both the fringe country and interior of the Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks. Mt Richmond Forest Park offers hunting for those with good bush stalking and navigation skills. Chamois are occasionally seen on Mt Owen and higher mountains to the south of the region.
The Motueka area centres around Nelson and Tasman, located at the top of the South Island.
State highways and local roads give access to most of the main hunting areas within the region. Some public access easements exist to allow the members of the public to gain access to native forests. Forest access permits are required for all exotic plantation forests as logging activities and heavy vehicle traffic can be dangerous.
Climate
The region enjoys good weather with mild temperatures in winter.