The Government has announced three new commercial upland game preserves today, giving game bird hunters even more options during hunting seasons.
The new upland game preserve areas and sizes are:
- Mangakahia (Whangārei) (359 ha);
- Lagoon Hill (southern Wairarapa) (653 ha) ;
- Grange Hill (South Canterbury) (2481 ha);
Each preserve area is on private land, with landowners providing pheasants for release and determining when their property will be open for hunting, said Hunting and Fishing Minister, James Meager.
Mr Meager said today’s announcement supports the Government’s commitment to make it easier for New Zealanders to hunt and fish.
“We want to support the growth of New Zealand businesses, which includes boosting opportunities for hunting. Commercial hunting business also provide local economic and employment benefits,” he said.
“Game preserves currently constitute a $7 million per year industry, employ about 40 people full-time, and provide recreational enjoyment for many people. We want to encourage opportunities to build on that.
“This a simple but effective step towards our ambitious growth agenda for New Zealand, and I am looking forward to bagging a pheasant or two when the new preserves open.”
New Zealand has 22 commercial game preserves, including the three announced today.
