Waitangitāhuna to Franz Josef hunting
Located in Franz Josef hunting in the West Coast region
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Introduction
Reasonable numbers of chamois, low numbers of red deer, and the occasional thar are present in this hunting block.Species
- Chamois
- Deer - Red
Permit requirements
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online or from a DOC office.
Seasonal restrictions
No hunting in Franz Josef valley 20 December to 31 January and between Good Friday and Easter Monday.
Dog access
About this hunting block
General information
There are a number of opportunities for hunting between Whataroa and Franz Josef on the eastern side of SH6. The largest of these is the Waitangitāhuna River approximately 5 km south of Whataroa. Large flats in the lower valley and several smaller side creeks provide good hunting.
Most of the stream systems between the Waitangitāhuna and Franz provide hunting opportunities particularly for chamois. (Eg. Macdonalds Creek, Potters Creek)
While streams provide good access, terrain is often steep and forests are typically dense podocarp forest.
NB: Stony Creek is private land with no public access.
Access
Waitangitāhuna
Access is from SH6. A short track just south of the Whataroa sale yards provides access to the true right of the river. A large portion of the true right on the valley above the SH6 bridge is private land so landowner permission is required, contact Greg Watson +64 27 346 8851.
Other streams
Most other creeks are public land but depending on access point some may require landowner permission. Eg. Potters Creek, Tatare Stream.
Landholders
Some areas will require landowner permission. For further information contact the DOC office.
Map
NZTopo50 BW16.
Dogs
All areas are prohibited to dogs except where authorisation has been granted by DOC. People wishing to take a dog into this area should seek authorisation from the DOC office.
Huts
There are no public huts in this area.
Hunting information
Red deer are generally in low numbers. Chamois are present throughout, and most stream systems hold reasonable numbers. Though due to the easy access, hunting pressure is relatively high and numbers will vary. The occasional thar is seen on Prices Range.
Additional information
Hunters are advised to check for current pesticide operations that may be in progress where they intend to hunt. Summaries are published on this site every four months.
The use of shotguns, shotgun-rifle combos, .22 calibre and rim-fire firearms is prohibited on public conservation land unless stated otherwise.
Contacts
| Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 752 0360 |
| westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 69 Cron Street Franz Josef Glacier 7856 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |
