Safety in Te Urewera

Safe Use of Firearms

Hunters wishing to use a firearm in Te Urewera must abide by the conditions of the Arms Act 1983.

The New Zealand Police and the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council provides the Arms Code 2013 for the safe use of your firearm. Please observe these rules when hunting in Te Urewera;

1. Treat every firearm as loaded

2. Always point firearms in a safe direction

3. Load a firearm only when ready to fire

4. Identify your target beyond all doubt

5. Check your firing zone

6. Store firearms and ammunition safely

7. Avoid alcohol or drugs when handling firearms

See the Arms Code for more information on the safe use of your firearm.

Bow and Cross Bow hunting standards

Here is the kawa for hunting with bow and crossbows;

Bow hunting :

Minimum drawing weight factor 35lb / 15kg

Minimum diameter of multi-bladed head is 7/8' or 22mm and they must be kept sharp

Arrows with any poison, explosive or other chemical substance on or in the head or shaft are not permitted.

Crossbow hunting:

Minimum drawing weight factor 150lb / 68kg

Minimum diameter of multi-bladed head is 7/8' or 22mm and they must be kept sharp

Minimum length of complete arrow is 16' or 400mm

Hunting arrows must not be placed into a loaded crossbow under any circumstances unless target is located. Crossbow must have a positive mechanical safety device in working order.

Arrows with any poison, explosive or other chemical substance on or in the head or shaft are not permitted.