New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association Incorporated

Media Release

Deerstalkers welcome Deer and feral Pig recreational management consultation

New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association (NZDA) has welcomed release the Discussion Document on “Managing the numbers of deer, chamois, tahr and pigs” by the Panel set up by the Minister of Conservation, Chris Carter to consult the public.

“Recreational hunters welcome this consultation because it is the first time the important question of managing these big game animals for their recreational value on public conservation land has been put forward” NZDA President Steve Veail said. “Up to now these valued animals have been treated as pests to be killed by the Government’s management agencies.”

“Today there are management methods to limit high numbers of these animals, and reduce damage to endangered native species. It is time Government recognised the long traditions and importance of recreational hunting and wild meat harvesting in New Zealand, as it is one of the major outdoor recreation activities on public land.”

“These traditions go back over one hundred years” Mr Veail said. “They are enjoyed by around 7% of our community, both rural and urban. This consultation will allow discussion of how best to recognise these animals’ recreational and wild food value, while limiting adverse effects.”

The Panel was created because of concern in the outdoor recreational community about present Department of Conservation (DOC) policies that do not recognise the recreational hunting value of these animals, or their wild food value to communities. This concern led the United Future party to ask that management of big game animals be reviewed, in its governance and supply agreement with the Labour Government. This consultation document is the first step in that process. The panel will report back to the Minister early in the New Year.

The Panel’s Discussion Document is available at: www.gameanimalpanel.org.nz Submissions close 6 November.

ENDS

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