Gamebirds
Paradise shelduck/putakitaki
Waterfowl, including paradise shelduck, mallard, grey and shoveler duck and black swan can be hunted in DOC managed areas.
Upland game such as pheasant and quail can also be hunted.
Licence and permit
To hunt gamebirds you'll need both:
- A licence from Fish & Game NZ.
- A DOC gamebird hunting permit. These permits are for specific areas and periods and are issued only though the DOC area office closest to the hunting area.
Find out more about gamebird licences and permits
Canada goose
A small game hunting permit is required from DOC to hunt Canada goose or feral goose.
Hunting seasons
Most gamebird seasons start in May, although season dates vary depending on the species of bird, and the Fish & Game region you are hunting in.
Fish & Game's Gamebird Hunting Guide is provided free with every game bird hunting licence.
More information
The Fish & Game website has detailed information about gamebird hunting in New Zealand.