Lochnagar hunting

Animals present are red deer, chamois and goats.

General information

The Lochnagar block lies in the northern Richardson Mountains between the Rees and Upper Shotover Rivers, joining Mount Aspiring National Park near Mt Tyndall. The terrain is steep tussock, scree and rock, cut by deep gorges and snow-covered in winter. The block encircles Lochnagar, a steep sided lake formed by a massive slip to the north.

The Lochnagar block is restricted during the roar period from 10 March to 31 May. Bookings will be made subject to availability. A maximum of eight rifles will be allowed in the block at any one time for a maximum permit duration of seven days. To obtain a permit contact the local DOC office. 

Access

Access to this block is from the Shotover through Branches Station, or from Rees Saddle on the Rees/Dart Track. From the Shotover, landholder permission is required. Both access routes require a high level of backcountry skills and experience.

For helicopter access into the Lochnagar hunting area the helicopter company may be required to apply for a one-off landing permit from the Department of Conservation depending on the location.  One-off landing permits take up to five days to process.

Landholders

For access through Branches Station contact:

Gene Bryce
Phone: +64 3 441 8421

Gaining a hunting permit to hunt the Lochnagar hunting area does not give rights to hunt on Branches Station.

For access through Rees Valley Station contact:

Kate Scott
Phone: +64 3 442 9908.

Maps

NZTopo50 series: CA10, CA11

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.