Where to Hunt Game Birds
The primary attractions for game bird hunters on the Coast are the diversity of habitat, providing for a range of species, but predominately grey and mallard duck (and hybrids thereof).
Shoveler, paradise shelduck and pukeko are also widespread throughout the region
In general, developed valleys with improved pasture and open drains offer the best waterfowl hunting – particularly for mallards, pukeko and shelduck
– however riverbeds, bush ponds and coastal wetlands – most of which are on DoC administered land – also provide excellent opportunity. Some relatively unexploited hunting opportunities remain in South Westland river valleys south of Harihari.
For anybody planning a trip to hunt the West Coast, Fish & Game can provide advice on key landowners to contact.
At the present time there are few problems with access to hunting on land administered by DoC, however if in doubt about land tenure contact the nearest DoC office (refer below) for a permit.
Greymouth (03) 768 0427
Hokitika (03) 756 9100
Buller (03) 788 8008
Sth. Westland (03) 752 0796
Gamebird hunting is permitted in six Scenic Reserves; Hunters wishing to shoot at Lakes Rotokino, Ianthe, Arthur, Swan and Lady, or Saltwater lagoon are required to request a permit from DoC before the end of March. In the event of problems contact Fish & Game.
Most private landowners will react favourably to reasonable requests for access to hunt.
The contacts listed below are recommended for hunters seeking new areas, particularly to hunt parries. It is essential to phone the landowner before visiting and to respect any reasons they may have for limiting access.
| Area Property | Contact | Number |
| Ahaura | ||
| M Bray | 7323576 | |
| R Becker | 7323879 | |
| G Paterson | 7323140 | |
| Atarau | ||
| A Becker | 7323576 | |
| C Brake | 7323080 | |
| A Berry | 7323856 | |
| C Van der Gees | 7323718 | |
| G O’Connor | 7323859 | |
| J Liddell | 7323747 | |
| M Mills | 7323001 | |
| P Berry | 7323856 | |
| R Little | 7323034 | |
| D Kennedy | 0276327795 | |
| G Graham | 7323063 | |
| P Jefferies | 7680193 | |
| Barrytown | ||
| George Coates | 7311805 | |
| Haupiri | ||
| C Egan | 7380389 | |
| H Temple(G.C.C) | 7380224 | |
| Ikamatua | ||
| G Prendergast | 7323518 | |
| R Lemon | 7323525 | |
| M Fitzgerald | 7323577 | |
| P McLennan | 7323755 | |
| Kokiri | ||
| D Bradley | 7625798 | |
| (C.M.P) | 7625055 | |
| Kowhitirangi | ||
| T Sheridan | 7557227 | |
| Mawheraiti | ||
| K Harvey | 0272228360 |
Maps
