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By Easy Licence TeamPublished on July 9, 2024

Guide to Getting a Duck Shooting Licence in New Zealand

Duck shooting is a popular recreational activity in New Zealand, requiring proper licensing to ensure sustainable hunting practices and adherence to regulations. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process to obtain a duck shooting licence in New Zealand. We assume you already possess a valid firearms licence.

It's relatively easy, all you need to do is buy the licence. There's no complicated application processes.

1. Understand the Legal Requirements

Before applying for a duck shooting licence, it’s important to understand the legal requirements set by the New Zealand Fish and Game Council.

Key Points:

  • Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 12 years old.
  • Game Bird Licence: A specific game bird hunting licence is required for duck hunting.

2. Buying Your Licence

Purchasing your game bird licence is a straightforward process. Here are the methods available:

Methods:

  • Online: Visit the Fish and Game online licence system to purchase your licence.
  • By Phone: Call the freephone licence number 0800 LICENCE (0800 542 362) during business hours. Note that a $5 booking fee applies.
  • In-person: Visit any Fish & Game office or regional licence agent to buy your licence.

Important Information:

  • Validity: Fish & Game's game bird hunting licences are valid for use throughout New Zealand (except in the Chatham Islands).
  • Licence Requirements: You must buy and sign your licence before you go hunting. You must then carry your licence with you whenever you're hunting or carrying assembled hunting gear.
  • Non-Refundable: Licences are not upgradable, exchangeable, or refundable.
  • Lost or Stolen Licences: Report lost or stolen licences to your local Fish and Game office, and they'll issue you with a replacement.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your Licence Online

Purchasing your game bird licence online is a convenient method. Follow these steps to complete your purchase:

Step 1: Visit the Fish and Game Website

Fish and Game Website

Step 2: Navigate to the Licence Section

  • On the homepage, locate and click on the "Licences" tab or the specific link for "Game Bird Hunting Licence."

Step 3: Select Your Licence Type

  • Choose the appropriate licence type based on your age and hunting needs (e.g., Adult Whole Season Licence, Junior Whole Season Licence, Day Licence).

Step 4: Create an Account or Log In

  • If you are a new user, you will need to create an account by providing your personal details (name, date of birth, contact information).
  • If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.

Step 5: Fill in Personal Details

  • Enter your personal information accurately, including your firearms licence number.
  • Ensure that your contact information is up-to-date for licence delivery and communication.

Step 6: Review Licence Terms and Conditions

  • Carefully read through the terms and conditions associated with the game bird hunting licence.
  • Confirm that you agree to abide by these terms by checking the appropriate box.

Step 7: Make Payment

  • Proceed to the payment section.
  • Enter your payment details (credit card or debit card information).
  • Confirm the payment amount and complete the transaction.

Step 8: Print or Save Your Licence

  • Once your payment is confirmed, you will receive a digital copy of your licence.
  • Print a physical copy of your licence and sign it.
  • Keep a digital copy on your mobile device as a backup.

4. Follow the Hunting Regulations

Adhering to hunting regulations is crucial to ensure sustainable practices and avoid penalties.

Key Regulations:

  • Bag Limits: Comply with the daily and season bag limits for different species.
  • Hunting Hours: Only hunt during designated hours.
  • Use of Non-toxic Shot: In some regions, the use of non-toxic shot is mandatory to protect wetlands.
  • Reporting: Report your hunting activities as required by the Fish and Game Council.

5. Licence Categories

Fish & Game offers several categories of licences based on age and duration:

Age Categories:

  • Adult: 18 years and over on 4 May 2024
  • Junior: 12-17 years of age on 4 May 2024

Licence Types:

  • Whole Season Licence: Entitles the holder to hunt or kill game at any time during the open season for game in (a) the region for which the licence is issued; and (b) all other regions.
  • Day Licence: Entitles the holder to hunt or kill game, these licences are only available after the second Sunday after opening day of the new season, during one (1) day in the open season for game inclusive in (a) the region for which the licence is issued; and (b) all other regions.

6. Occupier of Any Land

According to S19(3) of the Wildlife Act 1953:

  • “…the occupier of any land, and the spouse or partner and any one son or daughter of the occupier, may, during an open season, hunt or kill on that land without a licence (but subject to all other restrictions imposed by game regulations.)”
  • The occupier of the land is normally the owner if she/he personally resides on the land. This privilege can be transferred to farm managers or sharemilkers by a written statement to Fish and Game if the owner does not personally reside on the land.

7. Non-toxic Shot Regulations

If you are going duck hunting, non-toxic shot (e.g., steel shot) is required. If you are hunting pheasants, you can use either steel (or other non-toxic shot) or lead shot. However, if you are hunting both ducks and pheasants, you must use non-toxic shot only.

  • Possession of Lead Shot: The rules relate to the possession of lead for waterfowl hunting—you can't chop and change in the field.
  • Evidence of Hunting Pheasants: You must show the ranger that you are indeed hunting pheasants (no duck callers, no ducks hanging off your belt, etc.).

8. Update Your Licence Profile

If you have changed your address, phone number, or email recently, you should update your information on the licensing database. You should have one profile covering both your fish and game licences (if applicable).

9. Stay Informed

Stay updated with any changes in regulations or new information released by the Fish and Game Council.

Resources:

  • Fish and Game Website: www.fishandgame.org.nz
  • Hunting Clubs: Join local hunting clubs for community support and additional resources.
  • Newsletters: Subscribe to Fish and Game newsletters for the latest updates.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I upgrade or exchange my licence?

  • A: No, licences are not upgradable, exchangeable, or refundable.

Q: What should I do if I lose my licence?

  • A: Report lost or stolen licences to your local Fish and Game office, and they will issue you a replacement.

Q: Can I go hunting for pheasant with lead shot?

  • A: Yes, if you are hunting pheasants only, you can use either steel (or other non-toxic shot) or lead shot. However, if you are hunting both ducks and pheasants, you must use non-toxic shot only.

Q: Is my licence valid across all regions in New Zealand?

  • A: Yes, Fish & Game's game bird hunting licences are valid for use throughout New Zealand (except in the Chatham Islands).

Q: How can I update my personal information on my licence profile?

  • A: If you have changed your address, phone number, or email recently, you should update your information on the licensing database. Visit the Fish and Game website and fill in the necessary details.

Conclusion

Obtaining a duck shooting licence in New Zealand involves a few crucial steps to ensure you are legally and ethically prepared for the hunting season. By following the guidelines and staying informed, you can enjoy a responsible and rewarding duck hunting experience.