The NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is encouraging hunters to prepare for the roar by building up their fitness and strength to set themselves up for a safe and successful hunt.   

Thousands of hunters head into the hills during the roar but, without quality fitness training, hunters can sustain injuries, and severe hunting injuries double during the roar hunting period, compared to an average month. 

“We’re asking hunters who plan to head out this roar, that if they haven’t already started, to put some solid training in,” Mike said. 

The ‘roar’ hunting season marks the time of year when stags are most vocal, calling to attract the attention of hinds.

Around Wānaka the hunting area comprises 20,000 hectares in the Craigie, Albert, Minaret and Rumbling Burn western tributaries of the lake and Mt Burke to the east of the lake, according to the Department of Conservation (DOC).

The roar begins towards the end of March and runs throughout April, which means hunters still have two months to get prepared, Mike said.

“After all, the fitter you are, the more enjoyable and safe your hunt will be, and the less likely you’ll be to sustain an injury.” 

The majority of roar hunting-related injuries are caused by slips, trips and falls and nearly all are preventable with enough fitness training and preparation, he said.  

Every hunt is unique, so fitness requirements depend on many factors such as a hunter’s goal, their hunting location and land access, and group size.

MSC have created a downloadable guide to help hunters get fit, which features a fitness self-assessment, tips, and prompts at eight, four and one week out.

Mike said now is also a good time to tick off the planning and preparation stages.

“Going over basic navigation skills, understanding your hunting area, and checking all your hunting gear is up to scratch are good habits to get into before any hunt,” he said.

NZ Mountain Safety Council has been working for more than 50 years to encourage safe participation in land-based outdoor activities throughout New Zealand. 

PHOTO: Supplied