Hana Tapiata Hana Tapiata

Hunting & Fishing at Level 3

There has been a lot of kōrero about being able to gather kai during the lockdown. The transition to Alert Level 3 does allow a bit more movement for us all – but under some strict guidelines.

The Department of Conservation has extensive information about hunting and fishing under Alert Level 3.

Please stay safe whānau and take all of the usual hunting and COVID-19 precautions, including maintaining social distancing at all times.

Important message from Kaingaroa Timberlands:

All Timberlands managed forests (Kaingaroa, Whirinaki, Rotoehu and Waimangu) remain closed under Level 3 and the forest gates are locked and being monitored 24/7. We’ll let you know about the opening dates for Recreational Access Permits for hunting, fishing and game bird shooting as soon as we have updates.

Kaingaroa Timberlands/Timberlands Limited have issued a statement regarding their position on hunting: 

“Timberlands Limited are not issuing hunting and recreational permits under COVID-19 Alert Level 3 restrictions. This is primarily so we can focus on the health and safety of people returning to work but was also considering the two following Alert Level 3 conditions:

  • No motorised hunting is permitted, which accounts for the majority of hunting in Kaingaroa Forest.

  • People must keep local, and the Kaingaroa Forest estate operates across three regions (BOP, Waikato and Hawkes Bay), making it difficult for hunters to adhere to this rule.

At this stage the number one priority is to transition workers back into the forest safely while operating under COVID-19 Alert Level 3 restrictions.”

Timberlands have appointed Kepa Winiata as the new Tūhourangi delegate to issue hunting authorisation permits for when hunting is permitted. His contact number is 027 932 1185.

Conditions:

  • No hunting on public conservation land

  • Hunting and fishing are only permitted on foot and overnight trips aren’t allowed

  • Using quad bikes, off-road bikes, helicopters, boats or other motorised vehicles is a no go

  • You need to stay in your region and stick to your bubble

  • You need to follow all other hunting and fishing guidelines

  • All fishing must be land based

  • Road Check Points will continue – ensure you have the appropriate permit

You’ll be able to hunt locally on private and Māori-owned land under Alert Level 3, but you need the Land Trust / Incorporation’s or landowner’s permission and stick to the rules (including any hunting club rules).

Fishing

You can fish locally, but this needs to be land-based fishing only and at a spot that is close to your whare.

All Fish & Game and Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) regulations and restrictions remain in place and will be enforced – only take what you need and if you want to share kai with extended whānau and friends, you need to adhere to the guidelines under Alert Level 3.

Please check, clean and dry your fishing equipment when you’re moving from one waterway to another to stop the spread of catfish.

Duck Hunting

The duck hunting season has been postponed from Saturday, 2 May until two weeks after New Zealand eventually moves to Alert Level 2. The season will also end later.

Permits

To avoid disappointment or being turned around at a check point, make sure you have the appropriate hunting or fishing permit with you (paper or E-copy). If you’re hunting on private land, you need permission from the owner.

Read More