Duck hunters urged to keep safety in their sights this gamebird hunting season

03 May, 2023

Te Tari Pureke - the Firearms Safety Authority and NZ Mountain Safety Council say the start of the gamebird hunting season on 6 May 2023 is the highlight of the year for most duck hunters, but it’s also a time to keep safety in mind.

“Above all else we want duck hunters to be safe and to return home at the end of the shoot,” says Mike McIlraith, Director Partnerships, Te Tari Pureke. “The vast majority of duck hunters follow the seven safety rules of firearms usage and I encourage them to do the same this year.

“We are reminding people that the seven safety rules have been updated, and to make sure hunters follow the new storage and transportation requirements for firearms and ammunition. As duck hunters might travel on to social gatherings after shooting, this is especially relevant.

“If you’re driving to or from a hunting location, your firearm needs to be inoperable during your travel and concealed from view. Hunters must also make sure they have permission from the landowner or manager before they go on to any land to hunt.

When transporting ammunition says McIlraith, this needs to be separate from the firearm and locked in a glove box or similar storage area, if practical.

“Please, whatever else you do, once you’ve finished using your firearm, lock it away. Never leave any firearms in your shed, home or vehicle unsecured at any time.

“Remember, there are no circumstances when firearms or ammunition can be left in a vehicle overnight.”

During storage it is now required that all ammunition is kept in a locked container. You can only store ammunition with firearms in a gun safe that has a separate lockable compartment with a different key than the key for the gun safe.

These keys must be kept separate says McIlraith. If your safe doesn’t have a separate lockable compartment, you need to store ammunition in its own locked secure storage container.

“As you enjoy the day, save the celebratory drinks until after you’ve finished hunting and all firearms are locked away.”

NZ Mountain Safety Council Chief Executive Mike Daisley says to make sure you have a good plan and discuss it with everyone invited along.

“Set enough time aside to check your kit including first aid kit, food and water for the day.

“Communication is key, to check in with each other regularly, and that includes confirming firing zones. Remember that you are responsible for your own firearm at all times. Handle them safely, transport them safely and store them safely.”

Hunters need to check their kit including first aid kit, food and water for the day. PHOTO/SUPPLIED