National Hunting & Shooting Museum Officially Opens! Ministers Cut Ribbons.
On Friday last week, we celebrated a significant milestone in the opening of the National Hunting and Shooting Museum and Reference Library at our head office known as Deerstalkers House.
Our members would have been tracking this progress over the years and it was a proud day for all present because it’s now a new cultural landmark celebrating our unique Kiwi hunting heritage.
The Hon. James Meager, Minister for Hunting and Fishing, and the Hon. Nicole McKee, Associate Minister for Justice, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Their involvement underscores the museum's role in honouring the nationally cherished recreational traditions of hunting and shooting.
As we all know, hunting is an integral part of New Zealand’s landscape, evolving from a necessity to a respected, and valuable recreational pastime. We now have a place where all members and the general public can come and experience our history.
Gwyn Thurlow, NZDA CEO, emphasised the hunting community's role in this evolution:
“This museum is a tribute to the generations of hunters and shooters whose passion for their sport has helped shape our outdoor recreational culture. It also showcases our big game animals from the perspective of hunters and as valued species.”.
"After years of dedicated effort, we are thrilled to unveil a living archive to our nation’s hunting and shooting legacy," said Bob Badland, founding trustee and chairman of the NZDA National Heritage Trust.
"This museum was a dream I had and it’s a fitting tribute to the past and a resource for the future, ensuring that the stories and achievements of our forebearers inspire generations to come.
"Minister Meager applauded the recreational and cultural contributions of hunters:
“Today is the culmination of hard work of many different people. I’d like to take a moment to thank the NZDA National Heritage Trust, their small but dedicated team, and the volunteers who have helped to get this museum open.”
“Preserving history and culture like this helps us to share our stories, understand and honour the past, learn from our mistakes, and navigate future challenges.
The opening of the National Hunting and Shooting Museum is a timely reminder of the integral role hunting plays in New Zealand’s recreational culture. NZDA encourages everyone to visit and engage with the museum, a place where history, culture, and recreation intersect.
The museum is now open to the public, inviting everyone to explore its extensive displays and learn about the pivotal role hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts have played in shaping our country.
About The Museum
Located at Deerstalkers House in Wellington, the National Hunting and Shooting Museum is a beacon of New Zealand's hunting culture. Established by the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association (NZDA) and its National Heritage Trust, it is supported by a network of passionate volunteers.
The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, from historical firearms to the mounts of iconic big game species like red deer, tahr and chamois. Each exhibit tells a story of adventure, skill, and the deep-rooted connections between New Zealanders and their wild, scenic outdoors. Beyond just a collection of objects, the museum serves as a cultural hub for hunters, shooters, and all who cherish the great outdoors, providing a space to learn about, share, and celebrate the thrill and joy of hunting.
Minister McKee Opens Gunroom
The museum also features the Gunroom which was officially opened by the Honourable Minister Nicole McKee, a special exhibit dedicated to the evolution of sporting firearms in New Zealand, illustrating their significance in both historical and contemporary contexts of recreational hunting and shooting. With a focus on education and engagement, the museum aims to inspire current and future generations to appreciate the rich traditions of hunting and shooting that are an integral part of New Zealand's national identity.
At the conclusion of the Ministers speech, the crowd had a moment of silence for the late Dr Chaz Forsyth, he will be sorely missed.
Designed to be more than just a museum, this facility is a gathering place where history, culture, and recreation come together, ensuring that the legacy of New Zealand's hunting and shooting sports is preserved and celebrated for years to come.
Join and Support NZDA
Find and join a branch to get involved with promoting and protecting hunting in New Zealand! Search here.
https://www.deerstalkers.org.nz/join-and-support-us/branch-finder/