Both Barrels - May 2015.
While a still and clear dawn greeted most hunters on opening morning, it did not necessarily make for a poor weekend – with many hunters reporting a great start to the new gamebird season.
There were bright spots in the North Island too, where hunting has been tough for a while.
Some fine hunting and camaraderie has sadly, already been marred by several incidents, none more tragic than the loss of 15 year old Bay of Plenty teenager, James Johnston. Our thoughts are with James' family at this very difficult time.
Two other firearms incidents and three of bird dumping have disappointingly seen media scrutiny directed toward game bird hunting.
Make the most of the remainder of the season – whatever its length in your region – and please take care out there!
P.S. This month's cover picture is Thomas Garforth's superb winning entry in Duck Hunting in NZ's Opening Weekend Photo Competition. It was a tough call we received so many great photos – thanks to you all!
P.P.S - If you think you've got an image worthy of featuring on our 'cover', email it to Don Rood for consideration.
