Hunting NZ > Pheasant Hunting

Pheasant Hunting

Pheasants are one of New Zealand’s most sought after game birds. Their bright plumage and superb eating qualities make them popular with all game bird hunters. Pheasants are primarily found in the North Island while smaller populations can also found in Nelson and Canterbury.

Habitat

Pheasants have no down and dislike damp conditions. They are found in coastal dune country, exotic forestry, lupin, broom, box-thorn, ink weed and briar patches.

Hunting

The pheasant hunting season begins on the first weekend of May and generally lasts until mid-August. However regulations vary between each Fish and Game region and it is important to check local game bird hunting regulations. Please remember that it is illegal to shoot hen pheasants (females).

In some regions exotic forestry blocks are available for pheasant hunting under the control of local Fish and Game Councils. Some forestry blocks are ‘open’ which means they can be hunted by any number of people. Other blocks operate on a ballot system where hunters require a permit that must be applied for well before the start of the game bird hunting season. Most forestry companies require you to obtain a hunting permit.

Pheasants are vocal birds particularly towards the end of the season as territorial disputes are settled. As a result they can be easily located.

They have good hearing and sight and successful hunting requires elements of silence and surprise. When pheasants are flushed they often glide for quite a distance before landing and running at high speed. Often they will sit tight in dense vegetation.

The best pheasant hunting occurs on bright days. Sunny spells have the birds moving about from daybreak to mid morning and again from mid afternoon to dusk.

Gun dogs

The use of a gundog is essential. While cock birds are easily located and flushed, shot birds can be difficult to find. Breeds like labradors, pointers and spaniels are very useful as they flush and retrieve the birds.

Equipment

Open choked shotguns used in conjunction with number 6 shot offer hunters a good chance of bagging a pheasant. Because of the terrain and weather, pheasant hunting requires different clothing than waterfowl hunting - lightweight boots and clothing.

Because pheasant hunters often hunt in a group through scrubby terrain many hunters use brightly coloured hunting vests or hats as safety items. Vests also have plenty of room for ammunition and retrieved birds

If you want more information on pheasant hunting in your area please contact your nearest Fish and Game New Zealand office or the New Zealand Council on (04) 499 4767 or fax (04) 499 4768