Dunedin Hunter’s Death Ruled a “Terrible Accident”

Coroner Mary-Anne Borrowdale concluded that the fatal shooting of experienced hunter Kate Aynsley in June 2023 was accidental. Aynsley, who was hunting with her partner Gregory Fagg, died after her rifle discharged unexpectedly in rugged terrain. Investigations by police and the Mountain Safety Council found that she likely slipped on a damp slope, causing her weapon to fire. 🚨 The Incident in Blue Mountains On June 3, 2023, Aynsley and Fagg were hunting fallow deer in the Tramway Block of Department of Conservation land. The couple had won a ballot to enter the area and were hunting separately but remained in radio contact. Aynsley reported hearing a buck deer and said she would wait to see what it did. About twenty minutes later, Fagg heard a shot. After failing to reach her by radio, he searched for nearly an hour before Aynsley’s dog led him to her body near a creek. ⚖️ Coroner’s Findings Aynsley was found face down on a steep, slippery slope with her rifle nearby. The safety catch was off, and forensic analysis showed the gun had fired from about seven centimetres away, striking her under the chin. Police armourers confirmed the rifle was in good condition but could discharge if struck sharply with the safety off. The coroner concluded that Aynsley was preparing to shoot a deer and had disengaged the safety when she fell or fumbled, causing the accidental discharge. 🌲 Remembering Kate Aynsley Aynsley was an experienced hunter, a contributor to hunting magazines, and a host of women’s hunts for the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association. She worked as an administrator in Dunedin, had one son, and was engaged to marry her partner in February 2024. Her death was described as a tragic loss to both her family and the hunting community. 📢 Why It Matters The case highlights the risks of hunting in difficult terrain and the importance of firearm safety. Even experienced hunters can face accidents when conditions are hazardous. The coroner’s ruling underscores that hunting, while culturally significant and widely practiced in New Zealand, remains a dangerous activity requiring vigilance and caution.