Wellington> Hunting News July 2008

WELLINGTON – Go for geese and late season pheasant hunts

The main waterfowl season for 2008 has concluded with most hunters relatively contented with their season’s tallies.  The season start in May was slightly better than expected with average to above average bags taken – although the patchiness predicted due to the continuing dry periods was also prevalent.

Numbers of birds harvested throughout the rest of the season were about average – there were only a few decent winds to move the birds off the larger waters. 

One promising element was that there have been good numbers of birds paired up for breeding which should help keep numbers up for next year. 

A number of prosecutions have been processed for offences such as using lead shot (possession of), and hunting no licence.  We will continue to be vigilant on these issues for the rest of this season and next season.  All hunters are reminded to comply with reasonable requests from the rangers (many of whom are honorary) as failure to do so may result in a more serious charge of obstruction – which is looked at particularly dimly by the courts.

What to look for …..

…….in the Manawatu:
Pheasants are still on the open season until 17 August – so get out to the forests of the western plains or walk along the Rangitikei River bed.  Access permits can be obtained from the Wellington Fish & Game office ($5 each) 06 359 0409.  There are still cock pheasants out there in good condition that have eluded the early season attentions.  Hunters putting in the effort continue to be well rewarded.

…….In the Wairarapa:
Still very much worth checking out sites for Canada Geese that become easier to target and decoy after the first three or four weeks.  Season is open right through till 22 March 2009 – but keep an eye out for information on any organised goose hunts.  Send an email with your contact details if you want to be kept informed of any upcoming events.

On the private properties in hill country check out pheasant and Cali quail hunting opportunities -  again till 17 August. 
 

back to Both Barrels

If you would like to be kept in touch with Gamebird hunting news and other hunting information, please sign up for Both Barrels, our Gamebird hunting email newsletter.