Both Barrels April 2025 - Auckland/Waikato

Band reporting

A lot of work from volunteers earlier this year resulted in 2316 birds banded across six sites in the Auckland Waikato region.

We don’t want all their hard work to go to waste, so please remember to report bands if you are lucky enough to get one! It is best to report bands the day you get them.

Band data allows Fish & Game to estimate important parameters such as population size and survival rates, which go on to inform the management of the species.

If this wasn’t enough of an incentive already, Hunting & Fishing will be offering prizes to a lucky few who sent their bands in.

To report your bands, either:

• Ring the free phone number 0800 BIRD BAND (0800-247322) or
• Fill in the details via the website here.

Upcoming Duck Nights

Auckland Waikato staff will attend Hunting & Fishing Duck Nights leading up to the opening weekend.

• Walkworth (in store) 29th April 6:30pm
• Hamilton (in store): 30th April 6:30pm

If you live nearby, this is a great opportunity to engage with staff, check out the latest gear and maybe even win some prizes! What better way to get the kids pumped up for the coming season.

Rain inbound

Hunters will be pleased to see some rain forecast this weekend in the Waikato. This could provide some much-needed water to help fill ponds in time for opening weekend. The weather should clear late next week allowing hunters some time to get out and make sure their maimai is all set up and ready to go.

Regional regulation booklets

If you are wanting to check the regulations in another region, all regional regulations are found at: https://www.fishandgame.org.nz/game-bird-hunting-in-new-zealand/hunting-licences-and-regulations/hunting-regulations/regional-regulations

DOC permits

If you missed out on a DOC hunting permit when you purchased your licence this year, they are now available at the usual retailers.

Alternatively, reach out to [email protected] and receive your permit electronically.