Game bird hunters are being encouraged to take advantage of a nine-day season in March in Otago for paradise shelducks/putangitangi after a record trend count.

The March 7-15 ‘special season’ follows a 35-year-high trend count of paradise shelducks during annual monitoring by Fish & Game at 95 moult sites around the region.

Otago Fish & Game officer Mason Court said about 26,600 paradise shelduck were counted on wetlands, ponds and lakes across Otago in late January.

“The March special season is a chance to harvest some wild kai and to encourage junior and new hunters to hone their skills before the regular season starts in May, as paradise shelducks can be easier to hunt than other game birds,” he said.

After moulting, paradise shelduck feed heavily once they can fly again. 

The nine-day season also helps to disperse large flocks and lessen their impact on rural crops.

“However, any farmers with issues of game waterfowl affecting their crops are encouraged to contact their local Fish & Game office,” Mason said.

For the March special season, hunters can use their 2025 game bird whole season licence or can buy a daily licence from the Fish & Game website.

Special season hunting for paradise shelduck generally takes place over decoys in paddocks.

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

Mason said hunters will need to check the regulations for conditions around the special season, including bag limits and hunting locations.

For example, hunting is not permitted within 200 metres of open water during the nine-day season. All other game bird species remain protected during the special season.

“Shooting game birds on private land requires permission, but this often can be obtained as simply as a knock on a farmer’s door and a polite request,” Mason said.

PHOTO: Wānaka App