The 152ha Bendigo Wildlife Management Reserve, at the head of Lake Dunstan, offers a range of waterfowl hunting opportunities, featuring shallow wetlands, braided river channels and islands throughout the upper Clutha River delta.

Please select map for larger view.

A Fish and Game maimai is on the true right of the delta. Restoration work is ongoing throughout the reserve, with a focus on willow control, native planting and rabbit control.

Foot access to the maimai is via Gilmore Rd. Follow the road down to the gate marked with a Fish & Game “Foot Access Only” sign and ensure vehicles are parked clear of the gate. From there, follow the track towards the head of the lake until you reach the Bendigo Wildlife Management Reserve entrance marked by the Fish & Game signed gate. Once you are in the reserve, continue past the weeping willow to find a track cut into the grass which will guide you to the maimai. 

Boat access is available from the eastern shoreline off State Highway 8 via Rocky Point or the Bendigo boat ramp.

The Bendigo Wildlife Management Reserve maimai will operate on a first-come, first-served basis during the 2026 season, before moving to a balloted system from 2027 onwards. Hunters are reminded to be considerate of others using the reserve, including anglers who enjoy the delta year-round.

Note: Black swans have a 0-bag limit in Area A of Otago. (The Clutha River catchment upstream from the Clyde Dam.)