Hunter safety

Treat every shotgun in and out of the maimai as if it is loaded – no matter how sure you are that
it’s not. That means keeping the muzzle pointing away from yourself and other people, finger off the trigger, and having control of the shotgun at all times.

Quick Tips:

• Treat your shotgun as if it is always loaded.
• Do not take anyone else’s word that a firearm is unloaded –
  always check.
• Never lean your shotguns where they could slide or be knocked
  over.

Read more on pages 6-7 of the Firearms Safety Code

Opening day can be a great opportunity for people to get together, but alcohol and firearms don’t mix!
When people drink, their reflexes, judgement, and balance can become impaired. This can lead to accidents. So, stay sharp. Keep the drinks on ice until the shoot is over and you’ve safely locked your guns away.

Quick Tips:

• Do not drink alcohol before or while using your firearms.
• Do not shoot with anyone else who is, or has been, drinking.
• Gears before beers – safely lock your firearms away before going for a drink.

Read more on page 28 of the Firearms Safety Code.

When hunting this Roar always identify your target beyond all doubt. 

If there’s any doubt – don’t shoot.

It’s easy to get excited when you think you have sighted a deer but don’t let that lead to poor decision-making. Whether you are using optical or thermal imaging devices, you must follow Firearms Safety Rule 4 and identify your target beyond all doubt before firing. Good hunters will always check twice.

Remember

• Slow down, take a few breaths, and take a closer look at your target.
• Check your whole firing zone, especially to each side and beyond the target.
• Never fire at movement only. Moving bushes or trees might be a person.
• Always identify all the animal before firing. See the whole animal, analyse it, ensure it’s not a hunter carrying an animal.
• Spotlights and other night vision devices may not clearly illuminate the target. 

Read more on Firearms Safety Rule 4 on pages 15 to 20 of the Firearms Safety Code.

Remember to look after the safety of yourself, your mates and other outdoor users, and always be well prepared for each hunt – especially during roar and duck hunting season.

Before you go: 

• Check the weather forecast before you make your plans. Be aware of any rain and snow that could lead to a rise in river levels, and plan accordingly
• Make sure everyone has the right clothing, food and equipment for all possible conditions
• Consider the experience and fitness of everyone in your group when planning your trip
• Know where you are going. Make sure you carry a map and know how to read it
• Carry an emergency communication device such as a distress beacon or satellite phone.

Let your friends and whānau know where you are going and the details of your trip before you leave. You can use PlanMyWalk.NZ to build a trip plan and share it with others.

Find out how to get and register a beacon at beacons.org.nz