Game bird hunting is one of the great social recreational sports in New Zealand, great for exercise and spending time outdoors with friends and family.
Game bird hunting is also a privilege; we must all maintain high hunting standards by being an ideal hunter.
For more information you should refer to the hunting 'Code of Conduct' in the Game Bird Hunting Guide supplied with your hunting licence. Also refer to the Guide for season regulations, helpful hints on access, regional Fish & Game maps and much more. This guide is an essential companion to your hunting licence.
Fish & Game's game bird hunting licences are valid for use throughout New Zealand (except in the Chatham Islands).
Your licence is a permit to hunt for game birds in accordance with the regulations governing the Fish & Game New Zealand region in which you are hunting. It does not grant or imply any right of access over land. If you want to walk over private land, please first get the permission of the owner or occupier.
You must buy and sign your licence before you go hunting. You must then have your licence with you whenever you are hunting or carrying assembled hunting gear.
Licences are not upgradable, exchangeable or refundable.
Report lost or stolen licences to your local Fish & Game office and they'll issue you with a replacement.
You can view more information on game bird hunting licence categories, season updates and hunting FAQs.