Safety Critical as Easter Overlaps with Peak Hunting Period
25 March 2026
For Immediate Release
With the roar now underway across New Zealand, the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association (NZDA) is urging hunters and all recreational users to take extra care, with Easter this year coinciding directly with the busiest period in the hunting calendar.
NZDA Chief Executive Gwyn Thurlow said the overlap will see increased numbers of hunters, trampers, and outdoor users sharing the same areas.
“This is a year where we will see more people than usual in the bush at the same time. Hunters, trampers, and families will be using the same tracks, huts, and valleys. That increases the risk, and it means everyone needs to take responsibility for safety.”
Mr Thurlow said the most important rule remains unchanged and must be applied without exception.
“You must identify your target beyond all doubt before firing. Movement, sound, colour, or shape is not enough. If there is any doubt, do not shoot.”
“This is not just a guideline, it is the fundamental rule that prevents tragedy.”
While the roar is the most anticipated time of the hunting year, it is also the period where incidents are most likely to occur, particularly when hunters become focused on locating and responding to roaring stags.
“The roar creates excitement and urgency. Hunters are moving, calling, and responding to animals. But we must remain disciplined. You never know what is on the other end of a roar. It could be another hunter.”
NZDA is also reminding hunters that incidents are more likely to occur within hunting parties than between separate groups.
“Good communication and a clear plan are critical. Agree your hunting areas, stick to them, and do not deviate. We all know the temptation when a stag roars outside your zone, but breaking the plan is not worth the risk.”
With more people expected in the bush over Easter long weekend, hunters are urged to assume that any movement or noise could be another person until proven otherwise, and to take practical steps to reduce risk.
“Wear high-visibility blaze clothing, maintain awareness of others, and ensure everyone in your party understands the plan and their role. These are simple steps that save lives.”
NZDA also reminds all hunters to follow the Firearms Safety Code and the Seven Basic Rules of Firearms Safety at all times, and to ensure they are properly prepared for conditions in the field.
NZDA is reminding hunters that thermal imaging technology must be used responsibly and never relied upon for target identification.
“Thermals are a useful tool for detecting heat sources, but they do not provide enough detail to confirm what you are looking at,” said Mr Thurlow.
“A heat signature is not a deer. It could be another hunter or a member of the public. You must always visually confirm your target beyond all doubt before taking a shot.”
While handheld thermal devices are permitted for daylight spotting on public conservation land, firearm-mounted thermal scopes and night hunting remain illegal. NZDA is concerned that misuse of this technology risks both prosecution and the reputation of the wider hunting community.
“Ethical and lawful behaviour is non-negotiable. Hunters must use thermal technology correctly to ensure safety and protect ongoing access.”
“Most incidents are preventable. They come back to basic rules not being followed. Even experienced hunters are not exempt from making mistakes—that’s why we reinforce these messages every year.”
The roar runs from late March through April and is the breeding season for New Zealand’s deer species, with peak activity typically occurring in early April. Like duck shooting opening weekend, it remains the most important event in the hunting calendar.
“This is one of the best times of the year to be in the hills. Plan well, hunt ethically, respect others using the outdoors, and come home safely.”
About NZDA
New Zealand Deerstalkers Association Incorporated (NZDA) is the national body representing recreational deerstalkers and big game hunters. With 50 branches and more than 13,000 members nationwide, NZDA has been advocating for ethical hunting, conservation, and firearms safety since 1937.
Join NZDA To Help Us Advocate on Your Behalf
