Hunting in Rotorua, New Zealand: Permits, Seasons, Trophy Game, Laws and Unique Maori Traditions Topographical and natural elements of the region: volcanoes, forests and geothermal zones Rotorua is surrounded by Waimangu National Park with its famous geysers, mud pots and tree ferns. The region's forested areas, including subtropical evergreen forests and exotic tree plantations, provide ideal conditions for wildlife. Lakes Tarawera and Rotorua attract waterfowl and the mountainous areas attract large ungulates. However, hunting in geothermal areas requires caution: some areas are closed to the public due to the risk of erosion and volcanic activity. Hunters in the region: statistics and community According to the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC), there are approximately 2,500 registered active hunters in Rotorua (2023), most of whom are local residents aged 35-55. Tourist hunters make up 15-20% of annual visitors. The popularity of ‘trophy hunting’ of reindeer attracts foreign visitors, especially from the USA and Europe. Distinctive features of hunting: tricks that make hunting a real art Hunting permits are required to hunt in Rotorua, which are issued by the DOC (New Zealand Department of Conservation) or private landowners. The cost varies from $50 to $500 depending on the type of game and area. For example, hunting red deer in national parks requires a special permit, while hunting on private farms requires approval from the owner. Important: the use of air guns is prohibited and carrying GPS trackers is mandatory in remote areas. Rotorua: types of hunting and game - Ungulates : Red deer (trophy species, population ~10,000 head). Sika (smaller but more aggressive). Wild boar (hunting with dogs is allowed). - Birds : New Zealand pigeon (in season from March to June). Pheasant (introduced species, population controlled). - Trophy hunting : organised by tour companies with guides. Hunting seasons in the Rotorua region - Deer and wild boar : all year round, but trophy season is May-August. - Birds : season opens in March (pigeons) and April (pheasants). - Restrictions : night hunting is prohibited in Rotorua and shooting is prohibited from 19:00 to 6:00 near communities. Associations and clubs where secrets are shared mastery - Rotorua Hunters Association : provides safety training and organises shooting competitions. - Bay of Plenty Hunting Club : helps newcomers get permits and lease sites. - Maori Communities : some iwi (tribes) allow access to traditional hunting areas in exchange for participation in environmental projects. Legislation: what you need to know - Weapons : a licence to keep and carry is compulsory (check every 5 years). - Game : it is prohibited to kill pregnant females and young animals. Fines : up to $5,000 for hunting without a permit or trespassing. Hunting legacy and regional customs in Rotorua - Powder and Manuka ritual : Before hunting, Māori light a bonfire of manuka wood (native tea tree) to purify the spirit of the game. The ashes are scattered along the animal tracks. - Heirloom tattoos : Many hunters wear traditional Māori tattoos (ta moko) with symbols that promise protection in the forest. - Haka Haunti feast : After a successful hunt, a feast is held where meat is cooked on stones heated by geothermal springs. The ritual is accompanied by songs (waina) and dances. - Silent Hunting Day : Once a year (September) Rotorua hosts a day when only bow and crossbow hunting is allowed. This is a tribute to ancient Maori methods. Unique hunting facts in the region - Ghost Hunting : Rotorua's forests are home to the rare black deer, a hybrid of North American wapiti and native species. Its fur is an unusual dark colour and trophy antlers are often asymmetrical. - Environmental Patrol : Hunters in Rotorua participate in the Predator Free 2050 programme, shooting invasive predators (such as possums) that threaten endemic birds. Compensation is paid for each individual captured. - Geothermal trapping : Local hunters use thermal anomalies in parks for camouflage - animals are less likely to spot humans in areas of steam and fog.