Hunters urged to be safe, follow rules

The New Zealand Deerstalkers Association (NZDA) says the 2023 roar is looking up for many and as it coincides with Easter weekend, there will be an abundance of hunters in the hills over the course of the public holiday.

NZDA is encouraging hunters to take extra care to identify targets and remember to apply firearms safety basics.

Trampers are also being urged to be mindful that they may share tracks and huts with deerstalkers.

“This year, the peak of the roar happens over Easter and it’s highly likely you might bump into a deerstalker or two on the trails or share a backcountry hut with hunters,” says NZDA chief executive Gwyn Thurlow. “There will be many hunters in the hills over the coming weeks seeking an elusive stag or buck.”

Due to the public holiday, hunters need to take extra steps to ensure the wellbeing of their hunting party:

• Wear blaze clothing;
• Involve all members of the hunting party in decision-making;
• Map out hunting trips carefully;
• Be particularly careful to identify your target beyond all doubt.

New rules apply this roar as changes have been made to the Arms Code alongside new transport safety regulations which were put in place February 2022.

NZDA is advising hunters to ensure they are well-versed on these key changes.

There have also been changes to Rules 3 and 6 of the 7 Basic Firearms Safety Rules.

Thurlow notes that these rule changes impact all hunters transporting firearms and ammunition across country to reach their chosen hunting grounds.

“Changes made to transport regulations are subtle but important,” he says. “Police will be out in large numbers over the public holiday to ensure our roads are kept safe. Hunters have a big part to play in that by keeping up to date with the most recent transport rules and making sure they follow them.

“Transporting firearms to and from hunting sites will look a bit different or most hunters this road,” Thurlow says.

“All hunters have a responsibility to be particularly careful when transporting their firearms and ammunition. Learn the new rules, follow those rules, and protect our communities when you make the most of your roar hunting.”

Key transport rules

1. All firearms must be concealed from view from outside the vehicle.
2. Firearms must be made inoperable by removing the bolt or another vital part or by fitting a trigger lock or storing it in a locked case or carry bag.
3. Firearms must not be loaded with ammunition in the breach, barrel or chamber, or magazine.
4. Ammunition must be concealed from view outside the vehicle.
5. Ammunition must be stored separately from all firearms and be in a locked glovebox or similar storage area where practicable (e.g. a cash box).
6. Food and toilet stops of up to 60 minutes are allowed if you have your vehicle nearby.