‘Welcome to Hunting in New Zealand’, a new online learning module to upskill international hunters travelling to New Zealand, has been launched by the NZ Game Animal Council (GAC).
GAC Chief Executive Corina Jordan says hunting tourism is a high-value, low-impact activity that provides significant economic benefit for New Zealand.
“While international hunters often arrive highly experienced in their home environment, New Zealand’s rugged terrain and fickle weather presents a heightened safety risk, particularly when it comes to independent international hunters.
“The new learning module is designed to help prepare them for the challenges of hunting here and provide some of the knowledge to assist them to make good, safety-conscious decisions.
“It is also important for all international hunters to understand the various rules and regulations with regards to access, firearms and biosecurity. The module provides them a brief induction on these important considerations,” Corina says.
The new module, which has been developed with support from the New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association (NZPHGA) is available on the GAC’s free online hunter training platform, Better Hunting.
Welcome to Hunting in New Zealand covers:
- Essential regulations, permissions and compliance requirements, including firearms, permits and land access.
- The differences and challenges of New Zealand’s terrain and weather.
- New Zealand-specific hunting and outdoor safety advice.
- New Zealand’s conservation and game management environment.
- Biosecurity considerations.
The NZPHGA surveyed its members in 2025 and estimated that the guided hunting industry brought in around $280 million of direct overseas revenue annually. Prior to COVID, it is estimated this part of the sector employed approximately 470 people in full time or seasonal employment and a further 60 people registered in the associated taxidermy and trophy exporting services. These numbers have likely increased.
“The economic impact of international hunters is significant for New Zealand. The GAC is pleased to provide an initiative that helps ensure these visitors enjoy a positive experience hunting in New Zealand’s unique and world-class landscapes, and support increased understanding of our hunting safety, ethics, and biosecurity,” Corina says.