Don't go hunting says 'Fair and Reasonable'
The Fair and Reasonable Campaign - the campaign launched by the Coalition of Licensed Firearms Owners (COLFO) following proposals to change New Zealand’s gun legislation - is reminding hunters that under the National State of Emergency any activity that could require Search and Rescue is not currently permitted.
This includes hunting, fishing, tramping, swimming, surfing and boating - “or other activities of a kind that expose participants to danger or may require search and rescue services.”
Writes Nicole McKee, spokesperson for the campaign: “Our lawyers have studied the new Order... In short, Police do have the ability to stop you from going hunting and can enforce this ban.”
She added she was making no comment, “but with the roar upon us” thought she had better publicise the fact.
The number of injuries, fatalities and search and rescue missions spike dramatically during this period every year.
According to the NZ Mountain Safety Council, almost one third of search and rescue missions happen in April, along with about 30 per cent of hunting fatalities. It's also when 19 per cent of all injuries happen.
During March to May (the roar or the rut) hunters trek into New Zealand's backcountry to find red stags that are actively and aggressively competing with each other for access to hinds for mating - which includes roaring aloud to warn off competitors.
The order expires at midnight on April 22 April 2020 unless revoked earlier or extended.
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Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.
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Have you picked up your tickets to our 80th anniversary party yet?
Kia ora neighbours, here is the cover of our amazing 80th anniversary special edition! There's just enough time to book your ticket to join editor Jo McCarroll at Hamilton Gardens on November 11. Ticketholders will get this special (RRP $16.20) in their goody bags. Each goody bag is also packed with gardening paraphernalia and a brand new Jack Hobbs-bred Hebe 'The Gardener' plant, released to mark this amazing milestone. Plus you'll also get all-day entry to the Enclosed Gardens, canapes and bubbles
, and spot prizes. We'd love to see you there.
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.