Hunter safety | Firearms Safety Authority

Find the information you need to stay safe while hunting.

The code and the rules

If you’re going hunting with a firearm, you must know and follow:

Be prepared

Remember to look after the safety of yourself, your mates and other outdoor users, and always be well prepared for each hunt – especially during Roar season.

Before you go:

check the weather forecast before you make your plans. Be aware of any rain and snow that could lead to a rise in river levels, and plan accordingly
make sure everyone has the right clothing, food and equipment for all possible condition
consider the experience and fitness of everyone in your group when planning your trip
know where you are going. Make sure you carry a map and know how to read it
carry an emergency communication device such as a distress beacon or satellite phone.

Let your friends and whānau know where you are going and the details of your trip before you leave. You can use PlanMyWalk.NZ to build a trip plan and share it with others.

While you’re hunting

You need to:

involve your whole group in the decision-making and make sure everyone is comfortable with the plans being made
take firearm safety seriously. Even if you are hunting alone, it is highly likely that other hunters will be around
iIdentify your target beyond all doubt
treat every firearm as loaded. If you are sharing a firearm, make sure the person carrying the firearm maintains responsibility for checking it is in the appropriate state of load
wear blaze if bush hunting
always follow the 7 safety rules.

Essential resources for hunters

Check out the videos and resources below from the Mountain Safety Council (MSC) and Game Animal Council to help you and your mates stay safe while hunting.