Game animals can be hunted year-round in New Zealand. During the roar, rut and bugle period, from mid-March to the end of July, males are vocal and bold, and mature animals have impressive antlers or horns, and capes.

In readiness for the roar, the New Zealand Game Animal Council recommends hunters follow the five P’s of hunt preparation:

1. Plan for the best
2. Prepare for the worst
3. Provide your intentions
4. Positively identify your target
5. Pick the right animal

More information for those participating in the roar can be found on the council’s free online hunter training platform, ‘Better Hunting’. It provides tips from planning a hunt to safe river crossings, first aid and more.

Sharing the backcountry

Hunters are one of the biggest users of conservation land. Keeping up good communication means everyone can enjoy a trip into the hills and return home safely.

“Holiday periods are busy with families, trampers, mountain bikers and other hunters sharing the backcountry,” council chief executive Corina Jordan says. “Be friendly, communicate your plans and ensure you keep your hunting well away from huts and tracks so everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.”

When on public conservation land ensure you have the correct hunting permits, and have access permissions sorted for private land.

DOC also has a pesticide summary map to ensure any meat harvested is safe for consumption.