
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.


What's one highway or road that needs attention?
We've all been on a summer roadie and experienced first-hand the state of our roads.
If you've ever been stuck in a summer traffic jam, had near-misses on dangerous turns or feared for your life on clifftops (while the car behind you is tail-gating!) - you may have an opinion on this one.
Tell us what main road or highway you think needs some serious attention across the country, and why!


Poll: Is your nearest emergency department up to scratch?
Concerns have been raised about Nelson Hospital with complaints of lack of staffing and excessive wait times. Do you have confidence in your local emergency department?

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36.9% Yes, it serves us well
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62.3% No, I have concerns
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0.8% Other - I'll share below

Reminder: Tomorrow is our national walk-in adoption day with 50% off adoption fees
That’s right – if you’re ready to adopt, you can swing by your nearest SPCA Centre tomorrow (Saturday 5 April) to meet the animals without an appointment ?
It’s our goal to Clear the Shelters, so we’re offering 50% off all adoption fees until Sunday 13 April. With 1,100 animals currently available for adoption across the country, we’d love for you to come along tomorrow and meet those waiting. ?
You can also head over to our website to check out their profiles, and register your interest early if there’s a particular cutie who catches your eye – this will speed things up on the day.
To keep the experience as calm and positive as possible for our animals and staff, we kindly ask that only those seriously considering adoption attend.
See you tomorrow!
