Thread: NZDA - rifle range use

Originally Posted by Lentil

A few of years ago, a mate and I visited the Taupo NZDA range, and for a donation ( which was gladly given) we rocked up, burnt some powder, and ironed out a few issues with the hunting rifle. That was great I thought, so I joined the Tauranga NZDA, just when they were getting ready to build their new range. I never intended to enter shoots etc, I just wanted a place to sight in my rifle. I donated some money on top of my fees, and also joined a couple of working b's to help build the range. When the range was finished, I then found a number of restrictions around when I could go for a blast, and having to attend some course, plus pay a one off fee, and a key fee and I can't remember what else. Bottom line, I said shag this, sent a note to the secretary asking if there was any way I could just use the range very infrequently for sighting in without all the red tape. Unfortunately, that could not be done, so I reluctantly cancelled my registration, along with a letter explaining why.
I am not at all bitter, just disheartened that such a great asset as a new range is hamstrung by so many rules and regulations

Is it now the same at all NZDA ranges?? Has Health and Safety taken over all ranges??

Actually I think you are being a little precious Lentil. Its not that hard to get your own key and go up whenever you want. All you need to do is (assuming you are a member of the club):

1) Attend 3 public days to do 3 inductions on the range standing orders (these were done very frequently when the range was first opened so existing members could get through them quickly)
2) Pay your annual range fee ($50 I think)
3) Pay a one off $20 range key fee

Then bingo! You have access to the range as long as the park is open which is from sun up to sun down. Its not that hard.

The rules are there to protect the club, its users and the public. The land the range is on is leased from council and the NZDA have to abide by their rules (albeit some are a little over the top). If you look at the costs to be a member of other public ranges with the same level of facilities (which are constantly being improved) its not very expensive, especially when you compare them to the overseas ranges that i have been to.