Game Bird Hunting in North Canterbury
Mallard ducks are the most abundant and popular game bird in the region.
They have adapted well to the developed agricultural land which dominates the North Canterbury landscape. The paradise shelduck is the next most popular species among local hunters, and like the mallard, it also does well in developed land.
The region is also home to significant black swan populations, most of which are found on coastal wetlands. Grey and shoveler ducks are also found in the region but tend to be concentrated in wet swampy areas.
Upland game birds are less prolific than in some other Fish & Game regions but reasonable California quail numbers are present in the middle reaches of the braided river beds. There are small pheasant populations but the birds are abundant enough to withstand heavy hunting pressure.
Maps
North Canterbury Hunting Spots
In this section:

Game Bird Season
maimai licence You must carry your licence with you when hunting and present it if requested to by a Fish...
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Overseas Visitors
Hunting for upland game birds and for waterfowl takes place all over New Zealand. Licences Every person who wants to go game...
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Hunting Regulations
Game bird Hunting Regulations and Guides are updated annually. Please be aware at all times of local and national regulations to...
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New Zealand Game Bird Species
New Zealand is home to a range of game birds, each with their own particular characteristics and preferences. Early European settlers...
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Banding Together
Return your duck band details to win state of the art hunting stuff! BT XD Pond Shot2 Send in your...
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Send in Your Duck Band Details
Please send in your band details only - keep your band! 1 Close up of a duck band4. If...
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Where to Hunt Game Birds
The North Canterbury region has lots of game bird hunting opportunities. Most of the public land is administered by the Canterbury...
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Getting started in game bird hunting
Hunting encourages a variety of activities and the development of values that are important to New Zealanders. Hunters are responsible...
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Hunting Tips & Info
This section has updates on research undertaken by Fish & Game, as well as advice and tips for those wanting...
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Hunting FAQs
BB2csiJULY2017 A ballot winners view Wainono Reserve 2 Our Hunting FAQs cover the answers to our most frequently asked questions...
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Hunting Clubs
A full list of hunting clubs in the region will appear here shortly. If you would like to post details...
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