Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere) is a significant wetland of national and international importance, renowned as the primary game bird hunting area in the region. Mallard ducks are the most sought-after quarry during the traditional hunting months of May, June and July. Other species present include Canada geese, black swan, and shoveler ducks. However, it's crucial to note that Te Waihora is home to a large population of grey teal, a protected species. Hunters must exercise caution and accurately identify their target, especially during periods of low light.
The optimal hunting conditions occur during strong southerly winds, which displace birds from the lake's center to the downwind shore. Strong northwest or northeast winds can also be effective, with the downwind shoreline being the best place to hunt. Lake Ellesmere features numerous maimais (duck-shooting hides) along its shoreline. While many regulars have their own, any hunter is permitted to use a maimai situated on public land that has not been occupied by 7:30 am. This policy offers new or inexperienced hunters an opportunity to experience open water game bird hunting without the commitment of constructing their own maimai.
Permits and Regulations
To hunt on Department of Conservation (DOC)-managed land along the shores of Te Waihora, hunters must obtain a permit. These permits are available from the DOC Ōtautahi / Christchurch Office. Contact them at 0800 275 362 or via email at [email protected]. Additionally, hunters are required to possess a valid Fish & Game game bird hunting licence and a firearms licence. It's mandatory to use steel shot in this area.
Maimais on Te Waihora
The construction of permanent maimais on public land and Ngāi Tahu lakebed at Lake Ellesmere is subject to specific conditions. Hunters must obtain a registration tag from Fish & Game before commencing construction on a new maimai. Those with existing maimais that have yet to be tagged should contact the Fish & Game office. There is no charge for these services.
Access Points
Key access sites around Te Waihora include:
Johnstons Road, Lakeside Wildlife Management Reserve
Lake Road South and Dickies Road, 'Williams' Wildlife Management Reserve
Lakeland Road, 'Wards' Wildlife Management Reserve
Selwyn Lake Road, Selwyn Wildlife Management Reserve
Wolfes, Embankment, and Clarks Roads, Yarrs Flat Wildlife Management Reserve
Jarvis and Hudson Roads, Greenpark Sands
Seabridge Road, 'Lakelands' Conservation Area
Sunset Point (pedestrian access across rail trail – beware of rail trail users)
Kaituna Quarry (pedestrian access across rail trail – beware of rail trail users)
Bayleys Road, Timber landing area, Kaitorete Spit
Please note that no game bird hunting is permitted from the rail trail or within 50 metres of the rail trail. While crossing the rail trail to access the lake, firearms must be made safe, and dogs kept under effective control. On private land next to the rail trail, game bird hunters are required to exercise responsibility as per the Arms Act 1983 and the Arms Code issued by New Zealand Police. Maimais cannot be erected within the rail trail corridor.
Canada Geese
Canada geese are not protected under the Wildlife Act 1953 and can be hunted at any time using any method, except poisoning. While hunting Canada geese on conservation land, hunters must obtain a hunting permit. However, a Fish & Game game bird hunting licence is not required for hunting Canada geese.
Important Considerations
Dogs: Dogs are allowed for bird retrieval but must be under effective control. Remove any faeces. Be aware that toxic algal blooms can be fatal to dogs. Check the Environment Canterbury website for the latest information before taking a dog into the area.
Algal Blooms: Algal blooms on the lake can be extremely toxic to humans and animals. Check the Environment Canterbury website for the latest information regarding the safety of dogs at the lake.
Rail Trail: No game bird hunting is permitted from the rail trail or within 50 metres of the rail trail. While crossing the rail trail to access the lake, firearms must be made safe, and dogs kept under effective control. On private land next to the rail trail, game bird hunters are required to exercise responsibility as per the Arms Act 1983 and the Arms Code issued by New Zealand Police. Maimais cannot be erected within the rail trail corridor.
For more detailed information, including maps and specific regulations, please refer to the official Fish & Game and DOC websites.