Ballot holders undertaking maintenance of stands and ponds are permitted to do works for the months of February and March (& part April) only. Access to stands is not permitted during the four weeks prior to opening weekend to minimise bird disturbance.
Locked gates inhibiting vehicle access occurs in six reserves;
For Awaiti, Lower Kaituna and Thornton WMR’s - the gates for these wetlands will be opened from 7.00am Saturday 8th February 2025 and will be closed from 7.00pm Sunday 6th April 2025. The only reason the gates will be re-locked during this period, will be due to significant track degradation. This will be notified on the website.
For Awakaponga, Lake Tamurenui and Ohaaki WMR’s – due to ongoing theft and vandalism the gates will remain closed. Walk in access for maintenance is permitted.
All locked gates will be re-opened for vehicle access from 7.00am Thursday 1st May 2025 for the commencing hunting season (opening day Saturday 3rd May).
Queries; John Meikle, Fish & Game Officer 021 375 480