Nelson Marlborough > Hunting News July 08

Don’t put that shotgun away for the season just yet

With the 27th of July signalling end of the dabbling duck season, hunters are reminded that it’s not all over just yet in terms of remaining hunting opportunities in the Nelson/Marlborough region.  The quail season runs for another month until the end of August, Canada Geese till the end of November (except Wairau Lagoons which is 21 September), and pukeko until October 26th (within the Tasman Bay area – see your regulation booklet for details). 

So if you are not intending to compete for a spot on the popular spring goose hunt, there are still opportunities for chasing quail and/or pukeko within the region, or an independent goose hunt.  Populations of geese can be found in the Wairau, Upper Maruia, Upper Matakitaki, western areas of Golden Bay, as well as eastern parts of Marlborough. 

Quail hunting is a completely different kettle of fish from waterfowl hunting and can be very challenging.  Lightening quick reflexes are required to bag this tasty gamebird.  Gaining permission from private landowners, approaching forestry companies for permits, or hunting public riverbed are all options for the pursuit of this quarry. 

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