It's 3:30am. Your phone alarm goes off and for a second, you seriously question every life choice that led to this moment. But your mate's already sent the “leaving in 10” text, so there's no backing out now.
Welcome to your first duck hunting season in New Zealand.
Every year, thousands of Kiwis head out to the maimai for opening weekend — and if you've been invited along for the first time, you're in for a proper experience. But before you rock up in your jandals and a hoodie, here are five things worth knowing.
1. Get Your Licence — Yes, It's a Thing
Before you even think about touching a shotgun, you'll need a current Game Bird Hunting Licence from Fish & Game New Zealand. You can buy one online at fishandgame.org.nz, and you'll need to choose the right region for where you're hunting. No licence? That's illegal, and your mates won't be impressed.
If you don't have a firearms licence, that's okay — you can still go along for the experience. Plenty of first-timers spend their first season as a “spotter” or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Trust us, it's still worth the early alarm.
2. Know What You're Allowed to Shoot (and What You're Not)
New Zealand has clear rules around species, bag limits, and shooting hours. Mallards are the most common target, but you'll want to check the current season's regulations for your area — limits and legal species can vary by Fish & Game region. Your mates will likely brief you, but doing a quick read beforehand never hurts.
One golden rule: if you're not 100% sure what it is, don't shoot.
3. Dress for 5am, Not 5pm
This isn't a casual Sunday walk. You're sitting in a maimai before dawn, often in wet, cold conditions — so layering is everything. Think thermal base layers, a good fleece mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell. Waders are a must if you're setting up decoys or retrieving birds. And don't forget ear protection — shotguns are loud. Really loud.
- ✓Warm, dark-coloured or camo clothing (no bright colours)
- ✓Waterproof jacket and pants
- ✓Gumboots or waders
- ✓Beanie and gloves
- ✓Ear protection
- ✓Torch / headlamp
- ✓Thermos with something hot ☕ (non-negotiable)
4. Mind Your Maimai Manners
The maimai is a small space shared with your mates, their gear, and probably a dog. There's an unwritten code that first-timers should pick up quickly:
- →Stay quiet. Ducks have sharp hearing. Your mates are not being rude — they're being strategic.
- →Keep your phone on silent. Better yet, put it away. (We know it's tempting.)
- →Listen to the experienced hunters. They'll tell you when to stay down, when to call, and when to shoot. Your job is to follow their lead.
- →Don't stand up at the wrong moment. Nothing clears the sky faster than sudden movement.
5. It's Not About the Bag Count — Enjoy the Experience
Here's what no one tells you about duck hunting: the best part isn't the shooting. It's the 4am drive through fog. The first light breaking over the water. The sound of wings overhead. The quiet conversations in the maimai between flights.
Your first season might not be a full bag. You might not fire a single shot. But you'll understand why your mates do this every year — and why they invited you.
“You'll understand why your mates do this every year — and why they invited you.”
