DOC, New Zealand Deerstalkers Association (NZDA) and forestry company Ernslaw One have been working to find a suitable solution to enable midweek vehicle access for hunters, while addressing alleged issues of poor behaviour, poaching and damage to forestry equipment.
DOC Operations Manager John McCarroll says it was great to reach a potential solution, and he appreciated everyone's patience.
"Hunters who wish to access the site by vehicle via forestry land administered by Ernslaw One are required to obtain approved hunter status through the NZDA. This involves demonstrating a sound knowledge of the firearm safety requirements, an understanding of the behaviours required when accessing the hunting area through the private forestry land, and an understanding of the consequences of breaching the rules."
Previously, midweek vehicle access was closed to recreational hunters for the past several years. This was in response to safety concerns, vandalism to forestry company property and poaching by a small number of recreational hunters.
Now, access is reopening, to hunters that have completed the necessary approvals.
If approval is given, hunters will still need to apply to DOC for the monthly ballot to secure a permit.
John McCarroll urges all hunters to first get their approved hunter status from NZDA before applying for a permit from DOC or risk forfeiting any incurred costs.
If any hunter breaches the terms of the approved hunter status they may be prohibited from obtaining future hunting permits for the area. Serious breaches will be investigated, and appropriate enforcement action taken.
