2026 HUNTS course (Hunter National Training Scheme)

Start
17 Oct 2026
End
15 Nov 2026
Location
Queenstown area
Spaces left
0

Registration

HUNTS Course – Expression of Interest
Interested in taking part in the HUNTS course? Select this ticket to let us know you're keen. This isn’t a booking or commitment, but it helps us gauge demand and keep you informed about upcoming course dates, prerequisites, and availability. We'll be in touch with more details once the next course is scheduled.

Join waitlist

Hunter National Training Scheme

Get started on your hunting journey with HUNTS

We're now at the point of firming up participant numbers and would appreciate hearing from those who are still keen to take part, having seen the proposed course dates and cost outlined below.

The NZDA HUNTS Course is New Zealand's nationally recognised hunter training program and has helped generations of hunters develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge required to hunt safely, ethically, and responsibly in New Zealand's outdoors. Whether your goal is to harvest your first animal, develop your bushcraft skills, improve your marksmanship, or simply gain confidence in the hills, this course provides a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced hunters while meeting like minded hunters from around the Southern Lakes region. The program combines classroom learning, practical training, range time, and a mentored hunting experience, providing a solid foundation for a lifetime of hunting and outdoor adventures.

No firearms licence is required—just a keen interest and a reasonable level of fitness.

Course Overview

17-18 October | Queenstown (NZ)

Build the foundations of safe, ethical, and successful hunting while developing the knowledge and decision-making skills every hunter should have before heading into the field. The weekend concludes with a practical game meat care and butchery session, teaching participants how to make the most of their harvest.

31 October - 1 November | Queenstown and Cardrona Valley Shooting Range

Continue developing practical hunting skills before spending the day on the range, building confidence in firearm handling, marksmanship, and safe shooting techniques under experienced instruction.

14-15 November | Hunt Weekend (Location TBA)

Put everything you've learned into practice during an overnight hunting experience, applying your new skills in a real-world environment alongside experienced hunters. The weekend also includes river crossing skills training and development.

Backup Hunt Weekend: 21-22 November (if required).

Course Contents:

Hunting techniques
Species knowledge
Game utilisation (skinning, butchering, etc)
Firearm safety in a hunting context
Practical shooting and hunting ballistics
Essential bush skills
River safety

Participants must have a reasonable level of physical fitness and access to personal tramping equipment.

Cost per person TBC (Incl GST)

Includes:

Southern Lakes NZDA membership through to March 2027
Public liability insurance cover required for participation on approved private hunting properties
NZDA HUNTS course fees and manuals
Accommodation during the hunt component
Stoney Creek high visibility vest and cap
Course completion certificate

Weekend 1

Saturday, all day, start time 8:30am

Location: Queenstown

Welcome, housekeeping, and introductions. Bring a pen/pencil and paper for taking notes, and your lunch. Tea, coffee, biscuits, and manuals will be provided.

Modules covered: