TASMAN Region, New Zealand: When, Where and How to Hunt Legally, Hunting Seasons, Consequences of Illegal Hunting, Documents and Licenses

Hunting Rules and Seasons in the Tasman Region: What Every Hunter Must Know The Tasman region on New Zealand’s South Island is a popular destination for recreational hunting. It offers opportunities to hunt wild boar, red deer, fallow deer, and various game birds. Hunting seasons are set annually by Fish & Game New Zealand (FGNZ), the official regulatory body. Main hunting periods: Red Deer (antlered males): from 1 April to 30 June Fallow Deer: from 1 March to 31 July Wild Boar: year-round with regional restrictions Game Birds (e.g., pheasant): from 1 May to 31 July Seasons can vary slightly due to local conditions. The mild climate of Tasman affects animal behavior and migration patterns compared to colder inland regions. For example, in western areas like Mapua, seasons may be extended due to higher wildlife density. Compared to neighboring regions such as Marlborough, which focuses more on alpine terrain, Tasman's forested and coastal zones shape a distinct hunting calendar suited to its ecosystems. In recent years, there have been minor changes, including limited extensions for boar hunting in some areas to manage populations. Enforcement has also increased, particularly near conservation zones. Hunting Seasonality in Tasman: Best Times to Hit the Field Hunting seasons in the region are clearly defined. Winter hunting, which takes place from May to July, is ideal for pheasants, fallow deer, and boar. Spring hunting occurs in March and April, with the red deer season remaining open until the end of April. During summer and autumn, from August to February, most species have closed seasons except for restricted boar hunting. Key differences include the fact that large game such as deer is best hunted at the start of winter when animals are more active, while small game like pheasants thrives during May and June. Peak hunting hours are early morning and evening, and animal activity peaks in winter as they descend from highlands in search of food and warmth. The region also hosts hunting festivals such as the Tasman Wildfoods Festival, which combines hunting and culinary traditions, as well as competitive boar hunts. Hunting Restrictions and Bans: What You Can’t Do in Tasman Strict rules apply in the region. Sex and age limits are strictly enforced, with shooting female deer, especially those with fawns, prohibited. Protected species such as kiwi, cormorants, and certain owl and pelican species cannot be hunted. Hunting during the breeding period, particularly the rutting season from August to September, is illegal. Closed seasons include pheasant hunting outside of May to July, fallow deer hunting after July 31, and any hunting inside protected areas like Abel Tasman National Park. Violations of these rules result in fines and the potential revocation of hunting licenses. How to Get a Hunting Permit in Tasman: Documents and Licenses To legally hunt in the region, you need: A Fish & Game license A species-specific hunting ticket Registration with a local club (e.g., Tasman Fish & Game Council) Steps to obtain: Choose license type (local, temporary, or international) Pay fees (starting from $70 NZD per season) Print your digital permit Foreign hunters must complete a safety briefing and demonstrate knowledge of local laws. Joining a local hunting club is recommended — they offer guide services, route info, and access to private lands. Penalties for Violating Hunting Seasons: Consequences of Illegal Hunting Consequences of breaking hunting laws include fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 NZD, confiscation of weapons and trophies, license suspension for up to three years, and criminal prosecution for serious violations. Landowners who allow unlicensed hunting may also face liability. Authorities place strong emphasis on cracking down on illegal deer and fallow deer hunting outside of regulated seasons. Tips for Choosing the Right Time, Location, Gear and Tactics in Tasman To maximize success, consider seasonal factors when planning your hunt. During winter (May–July), target lower slopes and coastal areas where animals feed, using calls and approaching quietly. In spring (March–April), animal activity is reduced, but you may spot young animals; camouflage and blinds are recommended. Essential gear includes waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, binoculars, and a GPS device. Effective tactics include ambush setups for pheasants and downwind stalking for deer. Top hunting spots in the region are Kahurangi National Park (accessible with a special permit), Takaka Hill, known for its dense boar populations, and Golden Bay, popular for bird hunting. Before heading out, study maps of hunting grounds and consult local clubs for real-time updates on trails and animal behavior.