Hunting in the Tongariro National Park region, iconic terrain meets big game: features, demographics, seasons and legislation

Natural and topographical features of the region Tongariro National Park covers an area of about 795 square kilometres and includes three active volcanoes: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. The region is characterised by a variety of landscapes, from alpine meadows to dense beech forests and crystal clear rivers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, dense forests and rich fauna. This diversity makes it an ideal hunting destination as it is home to many species of animals including deer, tahr and rabbits. The climate in the region is variable: temperatures can reach +20°C in summer and drop below freezing in winter. This is important to consider when planning a hunt, as weather conditions can greatly affect the success of the event. In winter, the volcanic slopes are covered with snow, which creates additional challenges for hunters, but also adds to the excitement. Tongariro National Park: hunters and demographics of the region According to the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC), several thousand hunters visit the region each year. Most are experienced hunters who appreciate the challenge and variety of conditions offered by Tongariro National Park. Features of hunting in Tongariro National Park Hunting in Tongariro National Park is strictly regulated. This is due to the need to preserve the unique ecosystem of the region. Hunters must follow strict rules, including restrictions on the amount of prey and the use of certain types of weapons. One of the main features of hunting in this region is the need to obtain a permit from the DOC. This permit is issued for a certain period of time and allows hunting only in specified areas. Types of hunting and game animals - Deer hunting - there are red deer in the region, which are considered a valuable trophy. The deer in this region are characterised by their large size and high quality antlers. - Tar hunting - Himalayan tars, introduced to New Zealand in the early 20th century, are an invasive species and their shooting is encouraged to control the population. Tars live on the steep slopes of volcanoes, which makes hunting them particularly challenging and exciting. - Rabbit Hunting - Rabbits are also considered pests and their shooting is allowed year round. This is a great opportunity for novice hunters to practice their shooting skills. - Other animals such as possums and goats can also be found in the region and are also hunted. Hunting seasons that depend on climate and biology - Deer: the hunting season usually lasts from February to July. Deer are most active during this period and are easier to track. - Tars: hunting is allowed all year round as they are considered a pest. However, tar hunting can be difficult in the winter due to snow cover. - Rabbits: hunting is allowed at any time of the year. Tongariro National Park hunting associations and clubs There are several active hunting clubs in the region, which organise hunting, educate newcomers and protect the rights of hunters. Among them is the New Zealand Deerstalkers' Association (NZDA), which has chapters throughout the country, including the Tongariro region. The NZDA regularly holds training seminars and workshops for hunters and organises group hunts. Hunting regulations and legal norms in the area of the Tongariro National Park - Availability of a hunting licence. - Compliance with the quotas for extraction. - Using only authorised types of weapons. - Prohibition of hunting in protected areas. Traditions of the region in terms of hunting Hunting in New Zealand is considered an important part of the cultural heritage. In the Tongariro National Park region, hunting is often combined with traditional Māori practices such as utilising natural resources with respect for the environment. The Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have traditionally hunted and gathered, and their hunting methods are still utilised by some local hunters. For example, Māori hunters often use natural shelters and signs to track their prey. Interesting facts about hunting in the Tongariro National Park region - Tongariro National Park is one of the few regions in the world where you can hunt Himalayan tars in the wild. - The red deer that inhabit the region are considered to be among the largest in New Zealand. - Hunting in the region helps control the population of invasive species, which helps preserve the local ecosystem. - The volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park provide a unique hunting environment that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. - Hunters in the region often use horses to navigate the inaccessible parts of the park.