Thread: Hello! Newbie here, I have some questions and concerns on hunting laws.

Arms Act
48 Discharging firearm, airgun, pistol, or restricted weapon in or near dwellinghouse or public place
• Every person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months or to a fine not exceeding $3,000 or to both who, without reasonable cause, discharges a firearm, airgun, pistol, or restricted weapon in or near—
o (a) a dwellinghouse; or
o (b) a public place,—
so as to endanger property or to endanger, annoy, or frighten any person.
Arms Code
3b) Where and when you may use firearms
Before you do any shooting, whether with a firearm or airgun, you need to know when and where it can be safely and lawfully used.
You should take steps to ensure that your shooting does not endanger property or frighten, annoy or put neighbours at risk. Telling your neighbours about what you are doing is always a good first step.
The permission of the land owner is required before shooting anywhere. A permit is necessary before hunting on any land managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), which includes conservation and national parks.
.22 Rimfire rifles
A .22 rimfire rifle has been the traditional first rifle of many New Zealanders. It is regarded as a safe and inexpensive firearm for a young person. This rifle can be just as deadly as any other firearm and must be handled with respect and care.
There are only two places in which a .22 rimfire rifle can be used. One is at a rifle range, either indoor or outdoor. The only other place is on private property, with the owner’s permission. The .22 rimfire rifle is not generally permitted on any land managed by DOC, which includes conservation and national parks.
Shotguns
A shotgun is the only firearm suitable for shooting at birds on the wing. Firing a rifle in the air carries the danger of some person or property being struck when the bullet falls back to earth. Although shotgun pellets fall too, they do not travel so far and are much lighter. This means they are less likely to endanger someone.
The shotgun is used for fast moving game on the ground and in the air. In general, shotguns are not permitted on any land managed by the DOC, which includes conservation and national parks. This is to protect the bird life in these forests. A shotgun is also used for competitive shooting at clay targets.
Centrefire rifles
Centrefire rifles in various calibre are suitable for a whole range of game and target shooting. There is such a variety of calibre, projectile type and weight, however, that no single firearm or cartridge is suitable for every purpose. It is important, therefore, to think about where you can use your firearm before buying one. Ask someone who is involved in that sport. Often the Police, sports goods retailers or a NZMSC instructor will be able to help.