About Hunting NZ
Hunting NZ is a free, independent online platform built for New Zealand hunters — from those preparing for their first firearms licence to experienced backcountry hunters chasing tahr in the Southern Alps.
What Hunting NZ Is
Hunting NZ is an information and community platform that brings together the resources a New Zealand hunter needs in one place. It is an independent project — not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the Department of Conservation (DOC), NZ Police, Fish & Game NZ, or any government agency.
Our content focuses on public conservation land hunting, where the vast majority of New Zealanders hunt. We provide species guides covering all major game animals in New Zealand, regional hunting information, safety and rules guidance, permit and licence information, an interactive gear checklist, and a firearms safety quiz to help hunters prepare for their theory test.
Why We Built This Platform
New Zealand has a rich hunting tradition, but information about hunting on public conservation land has historically been scattered across multiple government websites, hunting forums, and word-of-mouth. Hunting NZ was created to consolidate that information into a single, easy-to-use resource.
We believe that better-informed hunters are safer hunters. By making species information, safety rules, permit requirements, and regional hunting details easily accessible, we aim to support responsible, ethical, and lawful hunting across New Zealand.
Who It's For
Hunting NZ is designed for all New Zealand hunters:
New Hunters
Those preparing for their firearms licence and planning their first hunts on conservation land.
Experienced Hunters
Those looking for region-specific information, species details, and new hunting areas to explore.
The Hunting Community
Hunters sharing experiences, stories, and knowledge through the Hunter's Journal.
Landowners & Hunters
Connecting private landholders with responsible hunters through Private Land Access.
What's Available on Hunting NZ
Species Guide
Detailed information on 16 huntable species in New Zealand — identification, habitat, distribution, behaviour, and hunting tips.
Hunting Regions
Guides to hunting regions across New Zealand, from Northland to Southland, including species available and hunting areas.
Safety & Rules
Firearms safety, DOC hunting rules, ethical hunting principles, roar safety, and river safety guidance.
Permits & Licences
Information on DOC hunting permits, firearms licences, game bird licences, and how to apply.
Gear Checklist
An interactive gear checklist to help you pack for a safe and successful hunt.
Firearms Licence Quiz
Practice questions to help prepare for the NZ firearms safety theory test.
Hunter's Journal
A community space where hunters can share hunting experiences, photos, and stories.
Private Land Access
A platform connecting hunters with landowners who have private hunting land available.
Our Commitment to Responsible Hunting
Hunting NZ is committed to promoting responsible, ethical, and lawful hunting. We believe every hunter has a duty to:
- • Identify their target beyond all doubt
- • Hold a valid firearms licence and hunting permit
- • Follow the Firearms Safety Code at all times
- • Only take shots that ensure a humane kill
- • Respect private property and obtain permission before entering
- • Preserve the environment and leave no trace
Verify With Official Sources
Hunting regulations, permit requirements, season dates, and safety rules can change. While we strive to keep our information accurate and current, we strongly encourage all hunters to verify current requirements with the relevant authorities before hunting:
- • Department of Conservation (DOC) for hunting permits, area conditions, and pesticide summaries
- • Te Tari Pūreke / Firearms Safety Authority for firearms licensing and safety
- • Fish & Game NZ for game bird licences and season dates
- • Landowners for private land access permission
Get In Touch
Questions, feedback, or suggestions? We'd love to hear from you.