SOUTHLAND Region in New Zealand – Hunting Seasons, Rules, Licenses and Tips, Tactics, Gear, and Timing, Restrictions and Prohibitions

Regulation of Hunting Seasons in Southland: When and How You Can Hunt Southland, located in the southern part of New Zealand’s South Island, is a popular hunting destination for both local and international hunters. The area is home to a wide variety of game species including red deer, sika deer, fallow deer, chamois, Himalayan tahr, wild pigs, rabbits, and waterfowl. Hunting seasons in Southland are regulated by Fish & Game New Zealand (FGNZ), with some regional adjustments. The general open season runs from early April to late June, although certain species such as ducks may be hunted until mid-August. The region's cool, wet summers and cold winters influence animal behavior and hunting schedules. Compared to neighboring regions like Otago or West Coast, Southland sometimes opens its season earlier due to differences in terrain and wildlife density. In recent years, there have been gradual reductions in hunting periods across parts of New Zealand to better manage invasive species and protect native biodiversity. Licensing requirements have also become stricter, with increased monitoring and enforcement. Hunting Seasons in Southland: Best Times to Go Hunting Southland has two main hunting seasons: autumn-winter and spring. The primary season runs from April through June, when game animals are most active and weather conditions are still favorable. For large game such as deer and tahr, the best time is late April to early May, during the rutting period. This is when males are more visible and vocal, increasing the chances of a successful hunt. For small game like rabbits or waterfowl, May to June is optimal, as these animals tend to congregate in larger groups. Each year in May, events like the "Southland Duck Hunting Festival" attract hunters from around the world. These gatherings combine competitions, equipment demonstrations, training workshops, and cultural experiences. Restrictions and Prohibitions: What You Cannot Do in Southland Hunting rules in Southland are designed to ensure sustainable practices and conservation. There are strict restrictions on shooting female animals, especially during breeding seasons, which typically run from July to September. Some species are fully protected and cannot be hunted at all, including rare native birds like kiwi or black swans. Additionally, hunting is prohibited during breeding periods for specific game species. There is also a full closed season from January to March, except for limited permits issued under special pest control programs targeting invasive species. How to Get a Hunting Permit in Southland: Documents and Organizations To legally hunt in Southland, you must obtain a hunting license through Fish & Game New Zealand. Licenses are valid for one year and can be standard or commercial depending on the purpose of the hunt. Requirements include: Demonstrating knowledge of hunting regulations; Passing a firearms safety test; Paying the applicable fee (in 2024, approximately NZD 85 for residents and NZD 160 for non-residents). Local hunting clubs such as the Southland Fish and Game Council provide valuable information on available areas, rule changes, and offer guidance sessions for beginners. Penalties for Violating Hunting Regulations in Southland Violations of hunting rules in Southland carry significant consequences. Fines range from NZD 500 to NZD 5,000 depending on the severity of the offense. Shooting protected species can lead to legal action and possible confiscation of weapons. In 2023, several cases were reported where individuals were penalized for illegal hunting, particularly within national parks. Enforcement is carried out through patrols, camera traps, and reports from locals. Tips for Hunting in Southland: Tactics, Gear, and Timing Choosing the right time and location is key to a successful hunt. For deer species, early morning or dusk hours are ideal when animals are most active. In mountainous areas of Southland, a mobile hunting approach using optics and quality scopes works best. Your gear should be suited to the region’s climate: waterproof clothing, thermal base layers, sturdy boots, and effective camouflage. A GPS device and topographic maps are also highly recommended. The best time for duck hunting is early morning in late May to early June, when birds are most likely to be near water bodies. Using decoys and calls can significantly increase your success rate.