Fish & Game launches comprehensive game bird hunting knowledge hub

Fish & Game New Zealand has launched a new online game bird hunting knowledge hub, providing free resources to help game bird hunters at all experience levels succeed in the field.

The comprehensive collection of downloadable guides and how-to resources covers everything from equipment selection and game bird identification to maimai construction, calling techniques, and how to prepare harvested game birds for the table.

Fish & Game Chief Executive Officer Corina Jordan, who created the project, said the knowledge hub was developed to support both new and experienced game bird hunters.

"New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world for game bird hunting. The access we enjoy, the quality of our outdoor experiences, and the connection to the land that comes with it – it's all part of what makes us who we are," Jordan said.

"Everyone's game bird hunting journey is different, and whether you're planning your first season or your fiftieth, having trusted resources at your fingertips can help you get better results."

The knowledge hub draws from best practice in New Zealand and international leaders in hunter education.

Fish & Game Chief Operating Officer Richie Cosgrove says "We know that traditional ways to learn about game bird hunting and develop skills is changing. We're passionate about making these traditions accessible for everyone interested, and breaking down barriers to participation," Cosgrove said.

"Success in the field comes with knowledge. The more comfortable and confident you are with your gear, your environment, and your technique, the more rewarding your experience will be."

The hub includes detailed guides on:

• Equipment selection
• Game bird identification and behaviour
• Finding hunting locations
• Season timing and weather considerations
• Maimai and blind construction
• Calling techniques
• Shooting safety and accuracy
• Decoy strategies
• Butchery and plucking
• Cooking and recipes

The resources can be downloaded and taken into the field, or read whenever you like on your phone, wherever you are.

Fish & Game is seeking feedback from hunters to help develop the knowledge hub further as a living resource that meets the needs of New Zealand's game bird hunting community.

Check out the hub here