Opening weekend for duck-shooting season is here – and from 6.45am tomorrow (May 7) it’s all on for local hunters in Central.

Central Otago Sports Depot’s Stu Middendorf said opening weekend is like 'boys Christmas', with a real buzz about it every year, and that this year was no different.

“Local hunters are super excited… it’s always an exciting time."

He said his shop still had stock for hunters needing to pick up last minute items.

“I’m really hoping everyone has a great weekend and stays safe out there.”

Otago Fish and Game officer Bruce Quirey said when they surveyed the area the number of mallards was the highest seen in several years.

"Mallard and paradise shelduck numbers are looking as good as ever. This year’s annual trend counts for both species set records on selected ponds, rivers and overland sections in Otago, so make the most of the next three months to harvest meat for the table."

Bruce said after several dry months local hunters might need a back up plan if their usual duck ponds were low.

"Central Otago, like many parts of the region, was dry for several months and some pond levels were low. If your pond is affected, you might need to expand your horizons to get the best harvest. Larger ponds, lakes and rivers will be good options, as well as paddocks near irrigation."

Otago Fish & Game rangers will be patrolling in Central Otago this weekend with police support.

"Take care with firearms and water as we want an accident-free season, and always carry your hunting and firearms licences. Please hunt responsibly and ethically," Bruce said.

Preparation is key to lower the chances of incidents or injuries so hunters are urged to check equipment and local bag limits prior to heading to their maimai. Fish & Game New Zealand and the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) work collaboratively to help duck hunters to hunt safely. 

Insights duck hunters should be aware of:

• 87 percent of game bird hunting injuries occur in May
• 50 percent of the annual total of injuries occur over opening weekend
• Falling/tripping/slipping (in or around the maimai) is the most common cause of duck hunting injury, but these aren’t typically serious incidents
• Every season there are firearms incidents. These can include hunters shooting themselves, shooting others, or firearm handling and proximity related injuries, such as hearing loss, facial and eye injuries

Fish & Game New Zealand’s website has reminders of do’s and don’ts to make sure your duck-shooting season is an enjoyable one. 

Do’s:

• Carry hunting and firearms licence at all times
• Be safe with firearms and on the water - know the seven rules for safe firearm handling - click here
• Be an ambassador for hunters - hunt ethically & responsibly
• Clean your game bird harvest quickly to ensure the best quality meat for your table
• Bury waste after cleaning your birds
• Follow the rules

Don'ts:

• Don't drink alcohol and hunt
• Don't leave rubbish at your stand
• Don't be unethical – respect your quarry and the hunting regulations

Read the Game Bird Hunting Guide, Regulations and Hunting Areas – South Island (for season starting May 7, 2022) here.

The Central App team wishes hunters all the best for opening weekend! If you've got some impressive pics or a good yarn to share after the weekend contact: [email protected]