New Zealand's waterfowl game hunting year traditionally begins on the first Saturday in May (May 2 in 2026) and usually lasts through June or July. Within the Otago Fish & Game territory, schedules vary by species. Waterfowl hunting opens on May 2 and concludes in late July, while the season for upland game birds stays open through August.
Yes, Possum numbers are modest, wallabies are about 2.5–3 hours from the lodge.
You can shoot many different species of birds in New Zealand, including paradise ducks, black swans, mallards, grey and shoveler ducks, and Canada geese.
Often, subject to your country’s import rules, taxidermy in New Zealand may be required.
Yes, Arapawa ram hunting in New Zealand is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to extend their hunt with a unique challenge, as well as a great option for first-time or younger hunters.
Yes. Goat hunting in New Zealand is an exciting, affordable and fun add-on to any big game hunting trip.
A ram and a sheep are the same animal, however, a ram is simply an adult, uncastrated male sheep.
A trophy ram is best recognised by its massive, heavily ridged horns that grow backward before curling downward and flaring outwards in a dramatic, wide-sweeping spiral. Built for rugged terrain, these medium-sized, light-boned animals sport a dense, fine wool fleece ranging in color from deep chocolate brown and reddish-tan to bold piebald patches. Their heads feature a lean, wild profile typically marked by a dark face accented with sharp white badger-like facial stripes, eye patches, or a white topknot, giving them a fierce and unmistakable wilderness appearance.
Arapawa sheep and feral goat hunts offer high engagement and frequent spotting opportunities without the extreme physical demands or long periods of waiting often associated with larger alpine game. Because these animals herd together and occupy more accessible terrain, new hunters can practice essential fieldcraft (such as glassing, stalking, and shot placement) in a setting that builds confidence and delivers a highly rewarding experience.
No, possums are not protected in New Zealand. In fact, possums are classified as a major invasive pest under the Biosecurity Act and it is encouraged for people to hunt possums in New Zealand. Because they destroy native bush, prey on indigenous birds and eggs, and spread bovine tuberculosis to livestock, possums are actively controlled across the country.
The best time to hunt wild pigs in New Zealand is early morning (dawn) and late evening (dusk) during the cooler autumn and winter months (March through August). While wild pigs can be hunted legally year-round with no bag limits, cold and overcast weather keeps pigs active in the open for longer, makes tracking dogs more effective, and forces boars to travel farther for food.
The best time of day to hunt rabbits is during dusk (late afternoon to sunset) and nighttime, as well as early dawn. Rabbits are crepuscular and nocturnal, meaning they stay hidden in warrens, scrub, and blackberry during peak daylight hours and emerge into open paddocks and pastures to feed under cover of darkness.
No, it is an offense in New Zealand to shoot at any bird that is not in flight, unless it is already wounded from a previous shot.