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HUNTS Course

HUNTS (NZDA Hunter National Training Scheme) was first launched in 1987 and has seen thousands of hunters gain the skills needed to hunt safely and responsibly in New Zealand. The HUNTS covers the knowledge and skills to operate safely as a hunter in the New Zealand outdoors and teaches the ethics of fair chase and the principles of managing a sustainable game resource.

HUNTS Course Structure

The course is delivered over 16 hours of theory and 4 field days including at least 1 overnight camping trip. The HUNTS Course attendance is a commitment. There are limited slots, so those participating will be expected to turn up to all stages of the course.

What you will learn

hunts course hunting ethics

ETHICS, ECOLOGY & REGULATIONS

This module instills the ethical and regulatory foundations vital for New Zealand hunters. It covers:

    • Responsibilities towards iwi, private landowners, and conservation authorities.
    • NZDA's hunting ethics.
    • Wildlife conservation principles.
    • Environmental care practices.

EQUIPMENT & FOOD

Here, hunters learn about necessary gear and sustenance for safe hunting, including:

  • Essential hunting equipment like packs, tents, and knives.
  • Care and selection of equipment and clothing.
  • Food selection, storage, and cooking.
  • Awareness of carbon monoxide dangers and communication devices.
camp cooking when hunting
backcountry travel

BACKCOUNTRY TRAVEL

Understanding the fundamentals of safe travel is paramount, covering:

  • Trip planning.
  • Interpretation of basic weather forecasts.
  • Campsite selection and setup.
  • Basic river dynamics and safe crossing methods.

NAVIGATION

This module equips hunters with navigation skills using maps, compasses, or GPS, including:

  • Map reading and compass use.
  • Route planning and distance estimation.
  • Determining location and following bearings.
navigaiton for hunter
firearms huntscourse

FIREARMS SELECTION, SAFETY & MARKSMANSHIP

Vital for firearm safety and effectiveness, covering:

  • The 7 basic rules of firearms safety.
  • Transport and field safety.
  • Rifle selection, ballistics, and maintenance.
  • Shooting techniques and sighting.

GAME ANIMAL SPECIES

Understanding the species hunters pursue, covering:

  • Identification of New Zealand's big game animals.
  • Recognition of deer species and their signs.
  • Knowledge of seasonal behavior and trophy considerations.
game species

HUNTING TECHNIQUES

Insights into hunting skills and game location strategies, including:

  • Deer behavior and habitat preferences.
  • Stalking techniques and wind awareness.
  • Effective field shooting and tracking wounded animals.

MEAT, SKINS & TROPHIES

Post-hunt handling and processing guidance, including:

  • Field dressing and skinning.
  • Trophy preparation and meat preservation.
  • Butchering techniques and trophy photography.

OUTDOOR EMERGENCIES & SURVIVAL TECHNIQUES

Preparing for unforeseen circumstances and emergencies, covering:

  • Basic first aid and medical emergencies.
  • Survival kit essentials and shelter construction.
  • Search and rescue procedures and helicopter safety.

HUNTS Course Pricing

The cost of our courses reflects the direct expenses associated with your participation and is facilitated by volunteer instructors operating on a not-for-profit basis.

NZDA Member: $300 (This is to cover reference
material (HUNTS Manual and handouts), and administrative overheads to run the course
efficiently. This also includes the costs of the hunting weekend in the Blue Mountains.

Attending Family Member: $255 (Reference Material is shared)

Some additional costs may be incurred for field trips and any additions items you may wish
to take.

HUNTS Course FAQ

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