MARLBOROUGH Region (New Zealand): Seasonal Hunting and Rules, Dates, Licences and Specifics of Hunting

Rules and Hunting Periods: When You Can and Cannot Hunt In the Marlborough region on New Zealand’s South Island, hunting is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike. The main hunting seasons are autumn-winter and spring. For most large game species such as wild boar, deer and chamois, the season opens in May and closes in July. For migratory birds like ducks, the season begins in April and lasts until August. Hunting dates are managed by Fish & Game New Zealand — an organisation responsible for wildlife conservation and regulation. Dates are adjusted annually based on environmental conditions and population monitoring data. The region has a warm and dry climate, which affects animal behaviour. Compared to wetter areas like the West Coast, animals here tend to be more active early in the morning. In neighbouring regions such as Canterbury, the season often starts slightly later due to temperature differences. Seasonal Hunting: Best Months for Different Species There are two main hunting seasons in Marlborough: Winter Season: From May to July – ideal for big game. Bird Season: From April to August – suitable for shooting ducks, geese and other migratory birds. The best days for hunting are early mornings and evenings, especially during cold winter months when animals are actively feeding. The optimal period for deer hunting is late May to early June, during the rutting season. Also worth noting are hunting festivals held annually in the region, such as the "Marlborough Hunting Festival" in June. These events offer not only opportunities to test your skills but also to exchange knowledge with fellow hunters. Restrictions and Bans: What Not to Shoot and When Hunting Is Prohibited Strict restrictions apply in the region aimed at preserving biodiversity. For example, it is prohibited to hunt female deer and chamois during breeding season, as well as young animals that have not yet reached sexual maturity. Fully protected species include native New Zealand animals such as kiwis, kokaburas, and certain songbirds. Penalties for killing these species can be severe. There are also temporary bans: for instance, hunting is prohibited in March–April in some areas to protect nesting birds. Additionally, hunting is banned year-round in parks and reserves. How to Obtain a Hunting Licence in the Marlborough Region To legally hunt in Marlborough, you must obtain a licence from Fish & Game New Zealand. Costs vary depending on the type and duration of the hunting permit. For example, an annual licence costs around $100 NZD for residents and about $200 NZD for foreigners. The process includes registering on the Fish & Game website, selecting the hunting area, and purchasing the appropriate Game Licence. Firearm storage and use regulations must also be followed. Many hunters prefer to work with local clubs, such as the Marlborough Fish and Game Council or private hunting estates. They assist with trip organisation, equipment rental and even training. Penalties for Violating Hunting Seasons and Rules Violating hunting season dates or shooting restricted species carries administrative penalties. Fines range from $500 to $5,000 NZD depending on the severity of the violation. Repeat offenders may face weapon confiscation and multi-year revocation of their hunting licence. Criminal charges may also apply for killing protected species, particularly if tied to commercial activity or mass shooting. Tips: When, Where and How to Hunt in Marlborough Choosing the right time and location is key to successful hunting. During winter months, hilly slopes and open fields are best for spotting large game. For duck hunting, marshy zones and water bodies near the Wairau River are ideal. As for gear, it's important to have warm clothing, camouflage, a quality scope and reliable firearm. Shotguns are used for migratory birds, while rifles (.270 or .308 calibre) are better suited for big game. Tactics-wise, solo or small-group hunting using stealth and knowledge of animal behavior yields the best results. If you're new to hunting in the region, consider hiring a guide or taking a preparatory course through one of the local clubs.