DOC reminds hunters to follow the rules this ‘roar’ season

Hunters are looking forward to deer breeding season, known as the ‘roar’ or ‘rut’, which starts late March and goes through April.

During this period, male deer ‘roar’ to warn off rival stags; making it a good time to hunt.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) reminds hunters intending to hunt on public conservation land to be aware of their obligations.

DOC Hawke’s Bay Acting Operations Manager Moana Smith-Dunlop says getting permits is an essential part of hunters’ preparations for the weekend.

“DOC Rangers will be vigilant in checking for hunting permits throughout the season.

“A hunting permit has information about local hunting safety restrictions and can be obtained from the DOC website or local DOC office.

“Hunters’ dogs require a separate dog permit issued from the DOC office, and they must be avian-avoidance certified.

“Hunting and dog permits must be carried by hunters at all times when hunting,” Moana Smith-Dunlop says.

Hunters staying in a DOC hut also need to purchase tickets for their stay from the DOC office. Revenue from hut tickets goes towards the maintenance of the huts on the track network.

DOC reminds hunters to adhere to the permit conditions and refrain from hunting in the hours of darkness or ‘spotlighting’. This practice is not permitted on public conservation land.

“I urge hunters to take the extra time to identify their target to ensure they get home safely and have a positive experience.”
Moana Smith-Dunlop says the roar is the busiest time of year in the back country and as such hunters should be aware at all times of other people using the bush.

Information on where to hunt on public conservation land, how to get a permit and safe hunting practice can be found on the DOC website:www.doc.govt.nz/hunting

–Ends–

© Scoop Media