Hunting permits for conservation land
To hunt on public conservation or government-managed land in NZ you need a hunting permit. Learn about hunting safely in these areas.
Apply for a permit
You can apply for open hunting area permits online and other permits at a Department of Conservation (DOC) visitor centre nearest the hunting area.
Types of permits and licences
The type of permit or licence you need depends on:
- what you want to hunt
- where you want to hunt
- the methods or equipment you are using
- whether your hunting is recreational or commercial.
Read more about the different types of permits and licences on the DOC website.
Commercial hunting permits
You can also apply for a permit to become a DOC-approved commercial operator on the DOC website.
What you can hunt on a permit
On DOC’s website you can learn about species that are:
- available to hunt in NZ
- managed or controlled by DOC
- require specific permits and licences
- protected in Aotearoa.
Where you can hunt on a permit
Find a hunting area
Find place to go hunting by region, species or whether dogs are allowed, on the DOC website.
Find places to go hunting — DOC
To hunt on private land you must get permission from the landowner.
Types of hunting areas
There are 3 types of hunting areas on public conservation land:
- open hunting areas
- restricted hunting areas
- recreational hunting areas (RHAs).
Learn more about these areas and their related permits on the DOC website.
Rules for hunting on public conservation land — DOC
Rules of a standard hunting permit
You must follow the rules that apply to all open hunting areas, and to any special conditions specific to a particular hunting area.
Standard conditions
- each person in a hunting party needs a separate permit
- permits cannot be transferred to, or be used by, anyone else
- you must follow the Firearms Safety Code
- you still need a DOC permit if you’re hunting with a bow or knife or are using a gun under the supervision of someone with a valid New Zealand firearms licence.
Firearms Safety Code — Firearms Safety Authority
If you want to hunt with dogs, you may also need a dog permit.
Special conditions
You can find about special conditions by checking the areas info page or contacting the DOC office closest to the hunting area.
Hunting related resources
The DOC website has other helpful information about:
Other online resources
Free online NZ hunting courses, games, resources and tools to help you hunt safely, successfully and responsibly. Produced by the New Zealand Game Animal Council.
Utility links and page information
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