Checklist for new season

Claim your hunting spot with the tag that comes with your licence
Fix any leaks, rotten boards, seating
Finish camouflaging maimai with camo net or vegetation Find tips on building a maimai or camouflaging here
Make sure vegetation isn’t blocking your firing zone or where the ducks will land
Make sure your access path is cleared and safe to use

Clean & rig decoys – get a few new ones if needed
Ensure your shotgun is in tip-top condition
Make sure your shotgun magazine complies with the rules
Check and double-check that you don’t have any lead shot ammunition in your duck hunting bag
Make sure your boots and waders are still waterproof
If you are using a kayak or rowboat, ensure it’s shipshape
If you are hunting on open water, check your lifejackets
Continue your dog’s fitness regime, check vaccinations & worming

Follow the advice of the Mountain Safety Council, experts in the safe handling of firearms. Click here.

Practice your shooting – organise a clay bird session with your mates before the season starts
Pattern your shotgun – get to know the ammunition and chokes you are using
Practice your calling – make sure you know what you are doing with your duck call. For tips from NZ duck calling champ Hunter Morrow, click here
Practice with your dog – reinforce the basic commands and have a refresher on retrieving. Remember to keep your dog on a leash when moving through farm stock, or meeting up with other people and their dogs.

Hunting away from home? Check the regulations for the region you’re going to:

Carry hunting and firearms licence at all times
Be safe with firearms and on the water - know the seven rules for safe firearm handling - click here
Be an ambassador for hunters - hunt ethically & responsibly
Clean your game bird harvest quickly to ensure the best quality meat for your table
Bury waste after cleaning your birds
Follow the rules