Originally Posted by
Remutaka
Brendan, a passionate hunter and duck shooter, combined his love for the outdoors with his printing expertise to launch Rod&Rifle magazine in 1980. From the outset, the magazine set a new standard for hunting publications in New Zealand, quickly gaining traction among enthusiasts. It featured a rich mix of content—hunting, bird shooting, sea and trout fishing, product reviews, and firearm articles from respected contributors like Graham Henry. For many readers, Rod&Rifle was more than a magazine; it was the spark that ignited their lifelong hunting journeys.
Over the years, Brendan became a mentor to countless aspiring writers. He generously shared his knowledge, offering guidance on crafting compelling articles and selecting the right photographs to bring stories to life. Many of those he mentored became regular contributors to Rod&Rifle and other publications, with some even going on to publish their own books. Though he retired from publishing in 2014 and sold the magazine, Brendan remained a quiet champion behind the scenes, helping authors bring their hunting tales to life in print.
Affectionately known as “The Ed,” Brendan was not only a visionary editor but also a cherished friend and mentor to me for over three decades. His legacy lives on in the pages of the magazine and in the hearts of those he inspired.
Rest in peace, Ed.
