Hunters gear up for start of duck hunting season

Duck hunters in the Wellington region are eagerly anticipating the start of the season on Saturday (May 5).

Wellington Fish & Game regional manager Phil Teal says prospects are good with the duck population faring well from a wet summer.

“Weather that isn’t good for camping over summer is good for ducks, and it's been pretty wet in the lower North Island,” he says.

“The season start will now depend on how the birds are dispersed following an extended period of fine weather."

Ahead of opening morning Fish & Game is urging hunters to be safety conscious.

“Hunters need to take a few minutes to refresh themselves on the firearms rules such as always pointing the firearm in a safe direction, and knowing where the fall of shot may land,” says Mr Teal.

“There should simply be no compromise of these firearms safety rules.

“Another aspect to be mindful of is being safe around water, as hunters are usually out of their normal 'comfort zone' in and around cold water.”

The main waterfowl season starts on Saturday, May 5, and continues until the end of June, with some species extending beyond this date.

ENDS

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