Game bird hunting season is now underway, and police are reminding people to be vigilant about safety, a message highlighted after a dangerous incident over the weekend.

The season began on Saturday (May 1) and, in Otago, runs through to August 29. 

“We encourage everyone heading out shooting this season to refresh themselves on the seven rules of firearm safety,” NZ Police acting superintendent Mike McIlraith said. 

On Sunday (May 2) two women sustained minor shotgun pellet injuries after shots were fired by a group of men duck shooting from a boat on the Clutha River near Alexandra. Officers are currently investigating the incident.

“We want safety to be your focus this duck shooting season so you and your mates have a safe and successful season,” Mike said.

The seven rules are: treat every firearm as loaded; always point firearms in a safe direction; load a firearm only when ready to fire; identify your target beyond all doubt; check your firing zone; store firearms and ammunition safely; and avoid alcohol and drugs when handling firearms.

“It’s also a really good idea to make sure you’re familiar with your firearm and have checked it to ensure it’s working correctly, especially if it’s been in secure storage since last season,” Mike said.

Where it has a safety catch, ensure that it is operating properly, he said.“Of course, the best safety catch of all is not having your finger inside the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.”

Fish & Game New Zealand describes Otago as “a game bird hunter’s paradise”.

And this season could be especially bountiful: Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said mallard monitoring this year across Taieri, Clutha and Pomahaka found numbers roughly 10 per cent above the average count since 2015.

While there are several hunting areas around Wanaka, many hunters head to Central Otago during the season for the best spots.

Find more hunting safety information from the NZ Police here and answers to hunting FAQs from Fish & Game here.

PHOTO: Wanaka App

See also: 

Women shot in duck shooting incident