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To ensure everything goes as planned and you get the most out of your hunt, ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker says hunters need to 'Have a hmm' and think ahead before heading out.
In the past five years, it has cost almost $30 million to support people to recover from hunting injuries in New Zealand.
Whitaker says it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the hunt and push your limits.
However, it's important to think things through well beforehand to avoid injury, he adds.
The NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) has developed a free 12-week guide to support hunters to get fit, and plan and prepare effectively for their hunt.
Whitaker says this approach will help reduce the risk of getting injured.
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“It pays to start your fitness preparation early to ensure you’re in top shape for hunting,” he says. “Put in the groundwork early, start with walking, tramping, and shorter hunting trips. You can start small and build up slowly."
“Introduce strength work, this could be your pack’s weight or with weights at the gym.”
Hunting during the roar can involve covering steep and uneven terrain while carrying heavy loads, says Whitaker.
“Your level of fitness is crucial for both your enjoyment and safety.
“Good fitness reduces your risk of serious injury, improves your endurance, helps to keep you mentally sharp, and enables you to get more out of your hunt.”
In 2025, ACC received over 1,800 hunting related injury claims. It cost $6.5 million to support hunters recover from these injuries and return to work and independence.
“Many injuries are caused by slips and trips. You can prevent these by watching out for uneven ground and tree roots and wearing sturdy footwear for support.
“Know your own limits and the abilities of everyone in your hunting party. If you’re feeling fatigued, take a break and check in with your group. Always stick together and make decisions as a group.”
Before you head out, research your hunting area and plan ahead, says Whitaker.
MSC’s Plan My Walk app and website allows you to plan your route, build your trip plan and share it with an emergency contact.
“Before you head out, it’s critical that you tell a trusted person where you’re going and when you’ll be back so they can call for help if you’re not back on time,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley. “Plan My Walk makes this step easy.”
Injuries don’t just affect the injured person – there are flow on effects for your friends, family and workmates too, says Whitaker.
“Remember to ‘Have a hmmm’ - slow down, check your route, watch your footing, and assess terrain traps to avoid slips, falls, or dangerous detours.”
New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, so it pays to be well prepared, says Whitaker.
Check the forecast and keep an eye on the conditions on the hunt, he says.
“When checking the weather, use a forecast that’s specific to the exact area you’re heading into, so you know what conditions to expect.
“Checking forecasts for a nearby town won’t give you the information you need. Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique topography often causes huge variations in weather.”
Check your gear before you go and ensure you’re carrying the essentials, Whitaker says.
“A rain jacket, warm layers, a warm hat and gloves, emergency shelter, first aid kit, head torch, extra food and water, two forms of communication, and a device that makes it easy for people to find you should be the minimum.”
Have a Hmm this roar:
- Slow down - this has benefits not only for your safety but also for your hunt. That extra pause may be the opportunity you need to see the game you're looking for.
- Pay close attention to your route - take in your surroundings and track it on your map. It may make all the difference when you're retracing your steps.
- Watch your footing - be deliberate with your foot placement to help prevent slips, trips and falls. You'll also be quieter, so less likely to scare off game.
- Stay alert for terrain traps, like bluffs - ensure that you assess the landscape before committing to a route to avoid getting into trouble. If you end up in a tight spot, pause and consider the safest way out, even if it's backtracking.
