Introduction

Hunters and shooters having been using the Waimakariri Riverbed and berm for over 150 years.

Documented accounts by early European hunters of plentiful waterfowl on the Waimakariri exist pre 1850 and as early as 1874, the Canterbury Rabbit Club whose objective was "the preservation of rabbits or game of any kind on the islands known as McLeans on the Waimakariri" held weekly shooting days.

Today, people are attracted to the park for its semi wilderness nature, distinctive character, to enjoy the outdoors, engage with nature and to make use of the recreation and leisure opportunities it provides. Recreation and leisure activities now take many forms and these provide a means of assisting people appreciate the natural environment.

 However, as the number of visitors to the regional park increases so too does the conflict between hunters and other visitors, the environment and essential land and river control infrastructure.

Environment Canterbury recognises game bird hunting as a legitimate form of recreation and along with Fish & Game NZ (Nth Canterbury Region) is working to ensure continued hunter access.

Additionally, a number of  hunting and shooting clubs lease land within the Park at McLeans Island offering a range of firearms experiences for their members and in some cases non-members. For further information, follow these links:

•  New Zealand Handloaders Association Inc.
• NZDA
• New Zealand Clay Target Assoc.
• New Zealand Police
• Christchurch Pistol Club

Access

Licenced game bird hunters can obtain a special access key from Environment Canterbury's Kilmore Street Office. This permits limited vehicle access into areas where normal public motor vehicle use is restricted. 

In all other locations, gate opening hours are posted on our specific park area pages.

Rules

• Only game bird hunting is permitted within the Waimakariri River Regional Park including riverbed
• The hunting of small game such as rabbits and possums by the general public is prohibited
• Game bird hunting must only occur in designated areas
• Only shotguns may be used
• A valid hunting licence must be held 
• Fish & Game "Regulations" and "Game Bird Hunting Code of Practice" must be adhered to
• Check the notice board at the park entrance for up to date information
• You can contact the park rangers on 03 353 9725.

Waimakariri River Regional Park Game Bird Hunting Advisory Group

A game bird hunting advisory group has been established to advocate on behalf of recreational game bird hunters and to assist Environment Canterbury in the management and development of the park. 

If you would like more information or would like to join this group, please contact the Park Ranger Team on 03 323 5342.

Pheasant Release Project 

With the recent increase to a 2 day pheasant season, Environment Canterbury and Fish & Game NZ (Nth Canterbury) initiated a pheasant release programme within the Waimakariri Regional Park during 2009.

To date, 300 birds have been released and with effective volunteer predator control, surviving bird numbers remain excellent.

If you wish to assist with this project, please contact the Park Ranger Team on 03 323 5342.