The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is encouraging hunters to get fit before the roar this year to reduce injuries that could last well beyond the season.

The ‘roar’ hunting season (in March and April) marks the time of year when stags are most vocal, calling to attract the attention of hinds, and hunters head out in large numbers for the best hunting of the year.

Around Wānaka the hunting area comprises 20,000 hectares in the Craigie, Albert, Minaret and Rumbling Burn western tributaries of the lake and Mt Burke to the east of the lake.

During the roar, the number of severe hunting injuries doubles compared to an average month, with 40 percent of severe injuries to the knee and shoulder.

A recent survey of MSC’s Adventure Voice outdoor research community also found one in seven hunters have suffered an injury due to a lack of fitness or fatigue and more than one-third have struggled on a hunt due to their lack of fitness.

MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said hunters should assess their fitness now.

“Many Kiwis hunt all year round and maintain a good level of fitness, but for those who have taken a break over winter and spring, now is the time to get active,” he said.

“A severe hunting injury results in an average of 76 days off work, so it’s wise to do the groundwork and avoid injuries if you can.”

Being fit has other real benefits too. Of the hunters surveyed, 83 percent said being fit helped them have a more enjoyable time, while 73 percent said it enabled them to cover more ground or challenging terrain. 

MSC has designed a free #ROARfit guide to help hunters build their endurance and strength, and plan a successful hunt.

“The key is to choose an exercise you like, start small, go regularly and build up slowly, especially if you’re out of practice. A great way to train or maintain your fitness is to walk, tramp or go on shorter hunting trips,” Mike said.

Having a clear plan for the day of the hunt is also crucial. Plan My Walk is a free trip planning tool that allows hunters to customise routes and gear lists, and build a trip plan that’s easy to share with their hunting party.

Mike said MSC was excited to be partnering with ACC for a third consecutive year to encourage hunters to ‘Have a hmmm’ during the roar season.

“Have a hmmm involves slowing down, taking your time to choose a safe route, being aware of terrain traps, like bluffs, and watching your footing. These are all crucial steps to stay safe on a hunt,” Mike said.