Both Barrels

Both Barrels April 2026 - Nelson/Marlborough

The 2026 game bird hunting season is upon us, and the first Saturday in May will see around 40,000 hunters take part in this iconic New Zealand pastime.

Nelson/Marlborough
23/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - Northland

What to expect this season: Over the past year Northland has had ample rainfall leading to ponds and wetlands having a good amount of water in them.

Northland
22/04/2026

It looks like a another promising game bird season for lower North Island hunters (Copyright Hamish Carnachan)

Both Barrels April 2026 - Wellington

Ducks Lined Up for a Promising Game Bird Season If you thought this summer was a washout, there’s finally some great news for waterfowl hunters.

Wellington
22/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - Southland

As opening weekend approaches, anticipation is building among waterfowl hunters across Southland.

Southland
21/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - Otago

Wet Summer Sets the Scene for 2026 Season Conditions are shaping up well for ducks heading into the 2026 game bird season in Otago.

Otago
21/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - North Canterbury

Excitement Building in North Canterbury It’s now only a handful of sleeps until we hit the maimais for opening morning, a time many of us count down to all year.

North Canterbury
21/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - Auckland/Waikato

Season prospects There has been plenty of rain in the Waikato, with lots more forecast.

Auckland/Waikato
20/04/2026

Both Barrels April 2026 - Hawke's Bay

Well, not many sleeps to go now, with some good rain recently, more forecast and plenty of birds around things are looking positive for a good gamebird opening weekend, after…