Deerstalkers urge a review of firearm safety training
Five hunting-related shootings this year is prompting a call to review firearm safety training for licencing.
The Hunters Helping Hunters event will take place on Saturday, 25 March at the NZDA Hastings Branch Clubrooms.
“Cyclone Gabrielle has left New Zealand in shock,” the organisation says.
NZDA has three branches – Napier, Hastings, and Wairoa – in the worst affected areas.
“Members from these branches have suffered significant loss, and while insurance will cover many items, it often devalues sporting goods,” the organisation says. “This has a direct impact on hunters, who may have spent a lifetime collecting equipment, only to find they now have nothing.”
“Hunting is a part of New Zealand’s culture and identity. Many people envisage hunters in the image of Barry Crump, wearing a bush shirt and Stubbies, and carrying his trusty .303 rifle,” it says.
“The sport has come a long way since the days of a Good Keen Man, but the challenges of tracking down a wild animal and carrying it home are still the same. Hunters still play a vital role in animal management and, in many areas, wild big game is a staple on the family table.”
NZDA says its members from outside the cyclone-impacted areas have asked what they can do to help.
“With the roar now upon us, we believe that supporting hunter will be critical for sustaining these communities. We have collected donations of hunting and outdoor equipment from our members throughout New Zealand and these will be distributed this weekend via the NZDA Hastings Branch.”
NZDA says all donated items are being offered on a first come, first served basis to both NZDA members and hunters from the wider community.
