Newsletter July 2025

CE Update

Update from Acting Chief Executive Richie Cosgrove

Welcome to this month's Fish & Game update. As we continue through what is proving to be a busy and significant period for our organisation, I wanted to share some important developments with you.

Reform Proposals

The Minister for Hunting and Fishing James Meager has announced proposals for significant changes to how Fish & Game operates. His proposals aim to modernise our structure whilst maintaining the core principles that have served anglers and hunters well for decades.

The key changes being proposed include centralising licence sales through a national system, establishing a national strategic plan to improve coordination across regions, and expanding voting rights to more licence holders. Importantly, what won't change is your fishing and hunting experience - seasons, bag limits, and areas you can fish and hunt will still be decided by your local regional council, and the fundamental principle of "user pays, user says" remains intact.

We understand there will be different views about these proposed changes across the angling and hunting community. As a statutory organisation, we remain committed to being an impartial source of information throughout this reform process, ensuring transparency whilst respecting the diverse perspectives that exist. We have set up this webpage to keep you informed.

A bill will be introduced to Parliament later this year, and a select committee will hear views from the community. This will be an important opportunity for licence holders to have their say on the future direction of Fish & Game.

Showcasing Our Value

Recent weeks have provided excellent opportunities to demonstrate the value of what we do. Our parliamentary hunt was a great success, giving us the chance to showcase the importance of hunting and our habitat work to decision-makers. The weekend highlighted how game bird hunting brings together conservation, community, and outdoor recreation in ways that benefit both wildlife and local economies.

I was also pleased to participate in a TV story about the economic value of angling, highlighting research which showed that recreational fishing injects over $138 million into local economies and supports jobs in communities up and down the country. These advocacy opportunities are crucial for ensuring decision-makers understand the real-world value of our work.

Looking Ahead

Whilst we navigate the reform discussions, rest assured we haven't lost sight of our day-to-day mission. Licence holders depend on us to manage their fisheries and game bird resources, advocate for habitat protection, and ensure compliance with regulations. This core work continues to be our priority.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to secure a strong future for New Zealand's angling and hunting heritage.

Richie Cosgrove
Acting Chief Executive
New Zealand Fish & Game Council

 

Pictured: Barrie Barnes, James Meager and Richie Cosgrove with the National Council seated behind.

Two great days of game bird hunting with Ministers in the South Wairarapa

Minister James Meager, host Chris Sparks and Fish & Game's Hamish Carnachan 

Ministers experience conservation in action at Lake Wairarapa

Last month, we welcomed Ministers James Meager and Nicole McKee, alongside local National MP Mike Butterick, to experience first-hand an example of conservation work undertaken with farmers who are also passionate hunters.

The weekend visit to Chris and Bridget Sparks' property on the southwest end of Lake Wairarapa showcased the partnership between game bird hunting, wetland restoration, and biodiversity conservation. Over the weekend, the group successfully harvested over 30 paradise shelducks whilst gaining insights into collaborative efforts that protect and enhance our waterfowl habitats.

Conservation through collaboration

The Sparks' property operates as a mixed farming enterprise with sheep, beef, and some cropping, whilst also leasing land to support local dairy operations. However, it's their dedication to wetland restoration that sets the property apart. Working with Wellington Fish & Game and the Game Bird Habitat Trust, Chris and Bridget have used habitat grants to create two wetlands. One serves as protected breeding habitat, whilst the other provides a safe environment for junior hunters under supervision.

Before the evening hunt, guests toured these wetlands with Chris Sparks, learning about the management required to maintain these ecosystems. The wetlands function as both biodiversity nodes and sediment traps that benefit Lake Wairarapa.

Community and access

Chris provides access to approximately 30-40 hunters each season who hunt from his land onto Lake Wairarapa. Many base themselves in the farm's woolshed, creating a sense of community and shared stewardship.

Recognition and appreciation

The weekend included special presentations highlighting these collaborative relationships. Minister Meager received a framed print of his game bird habitat stamp—the first he has approved and signed as Minister—from Fish & Game NZ acting CEO Richie Cosgrove. The Minister presented Chris with a recycled oak platter featuring landing duck artwork on behalf of Fish & Game.

Building stronger partnerships

This weekend demonstrated how game bird hunting brings together conservation, community, and outdoor recreation. Our Ministers gained valuable experience of Fish & Game's important work, whilst we strengthened vital relationships that will benefit our organisation and the hunting community.

The success reflects the dedication of Wellington Fish & Game and the exceptional hospitality of Chris and Bridget Sparks. Their wetland conservation work made this showcase of hunter-led conservation possible.

 

Showing our value to people and the economy

Check out this great story on 1 News on June 21 about our research showing how good angling is for the economy and the people who do it.

It was great to be able to get across to a national audience that angling isn't only good for people's wellbeing, it's also valuable to the economy.

Angling injects over $138 million into local economies and support jobs in communities up and down the country, while also providing significant wellbeing benefits.

Read the full report here: https://www.fishandgame.org.nz/.../new-research-shows.../

 

From war zones to waterways

Surgeon Robin Coupland spent decades treating war wounded in conflict zones around the world. His secret to coping with trauma? Fly fishing.

"I came to associate the exercise and the focus, together with the calm environment, with a very physical feeling that my mental batteries were recharging."

We want to hear from YOU: What benefits do you get from fishing? Whether it's peace of mind, family time, harvesting some wild food or just escaping the daily grind - share your story by emailing media@fishandgame.org.nz

One commenter will win a copy of Robin's new memoir ‘Dry Flies & Wet Socks’ - a powerful testament to fishing's proven mental health benefits.

Hear an interview with Robin on RNZ here.

 

Anglers rally for flood-affected farmers

Nelson Trout Fishing Club members getting stuck into the flood recovery effort.

The massive June 2025 flood, which battered the Motueka Catchment, was one for the record books.  The 100-year event has devastated low-lying areas of the valley, damaging houses, orchards, and farmland, and we feel for those who have been affected. 

Nelson Marlborough staff member Jacob Lucas has been coordinating the Fish & Game volunteer response and says that farm clean-up days are already underway, utilising a workforce comprised of anglers and hunters. 

“The response from the community to help people affected by the flood has been fantastic.  We are just one of many groups out there working hard to help restore farms, and so far, we’ve had a fantastic turnout from trout anglers who know the river well and have relationships with some of the affected landowners, many of whom generously provide fishing access through their farms to the river.”

For those who live locally, there is an opportunity to get involved in the clean-up.  Fish & Game will be facilitating more clean-up days over the coming months, aiming for one to two per week. To get involved, email Jacob Lucas: (jlucas@fishandgame.org.nz).

 

Maimai building kids competition

A couple of the Auckland/Waikato Fish & Game team were lucky to be invited to Korakonui school to help judge their annual maimai building competition.

Students worked in small teams and had an hour to design and build a maimai out of recycled materials they'd brought in, and to then scrub it up. The maimais were judged based on camouflage, functionality, teamwork, and creativity. The winning team (pictured) the "The Bush Builders" built a two storey maimai.

Following the maimai competition, the students could also take part in the duck calling competition, "duck shooting" (i.e. a nerf gun at decoys on standards) and a quiz on gamebird hunting in New Zealand.

Otago farmers creating vital wetland habitats 

Omakau farmer and duck hunter David Hill (left) shows Otago Fish & Game operations manager Jamie Ward around his wetlands.

Farmers like David and Susan Hill champion wetland conservation and hunter access.

Mr Hill, who farms sheep and beef near Omakau, has been transforming his property into a hotspot for waterfowl, creating multiple ponds that serve both wildlife and hunters.

Otago Fish & Game has recently boosted his efforts with funding through its Habitat Enhancement Fund.

Read the full story by selecting here.

 

Firearms community advisory forum 

Fish & Game represents the interests of our game bird hunters at the bi-monthly Firearms Community Advisory Forum set up by the Police Commissioner. Representatives from hunting and firearms groups, the Game Animal Council, the Ministry for Justice, Police the Firearms Safety Authority get together to offer practical advice to inform the new firearms regulations.

 

The rejuvenated fisher and his happy place

Brian Robinson in his happy place at the Waimea Park fishing ponds.

"In the late 1960s and early 1970s, I took up trout fishing, and spinning was my preferred method at the time. I fished mainly around Golden Bay, later in the Grey and Arnold rivers on the Coast. As a newbie, I wasn’t particularly successful, while others did okay.

From the late 1970s to the 1980s, family came along, among other interests, and trout fishing was put on hold, even though I did enjoy being outdoors.

Fast forward to November 2021, and my son asked if I could get time off work to go salmon fishing on the Tekapo canals. Of course, I said, let’s go. We had a great week, hooking 13 fish and keeping 10 salmon for five days.

When I got back home, I thought I should get back into trout fishing again. My biggest problem was finding suitable fishing access places for someone with mobility issues.

I then discovered the Waimea River Park Fishing Ponds near Richmond and Brightwater, and after trying it out, I was hooked, just like the fish.

The ponds allow me to get to the water’s edge using my crutches and either sit on a seat or in my wheelchair and fish.  I have been fishing at Lake Argyle in Marlborough, but so far, no luck. The biggest problem is not having easy or limited access for someone with a disability. I can fish from the road, but it is difficult to land a fish, unless I have assistance or a very, very long-handled net. I will return and overcome my problems somehow.

Now I'd like to share the tips and tricks I've learned with other anglers. I support a young man who, a couple of years back, couldn’t bait up or cast a line. Now, not only can he cast, but he can also catch, clean, de-bone, smoke and cook his catch.

I also help with the Sport Fishing for Youth Trust as a fishing guide. Just watching the kids catch their first-ever fish gives me great enjoyment.

A huge thank you to Nelson Marlborough Fish and Game and all associated people who created, manage and restock the fishing areas from the Marlborough hatchery so that I and other old codgers like me, who find it difficult to fish the rivers, can have easy access to our happy places to catch a fish.

Happy fishing, people, and tight lines. Hopefully, see you at my Happy Place."

By Brian Robinson

 

Women on the Fly update

"Women on the Fly NZ (WoTF NZ) is a self-funded, grassroots community representing women who fly fish across Aotearoa, committed to growing participation through inclusive events, mentorship, and community-building.

 

Partnership with Eastern Fish & Game

In May, a successful weekend workshop, hosted in partnership with Eastern Fish & Game, welcomed 24 female beginners. Organised by WoTF NZ's Jill Sweeny, with support from Tauranga Anglers Club and Rotorua Anglers Association, the weekend offered foundational fly-fishing skills led by experienced mentors. 

 

Club Membership Boost

Since WoTF NZ’s inception, we’ve seen substantial growth in female membership across the fishing clubs who WoTF NZ has partnered with for events, including Kapiti, Nelson, South Canterbury and Christchurch clubs. We believe many other clubs are benefiting from the wave of interest in fly fishing.

 

A Voice for Women Who Fly Fish

To ensure women's voices are heard, WoTF NZ surveyed 711 community members about the Family Licence structure, receiving 51 responses. 70.6% found the current rules too restrictive and 64.7% said it limits their ability to fish independently. Respondents strongly advocated for options allowing both adults to fish independently and access to voting rights.

 

Partner with WoTF NZ

We welcome collaboration with Fish & Game regions (and clubs) to co-host events and promote women-focused initiatives. More details at www.womenonthefly.nz or contact info@womenonthefly.nz"

by Leigh Johnson

 

ReWild Snap & Share photo competition winner

Congratulations to our ReWild Snap & Share: The Fish & Game Licence Photo Competition winner Sharna Brown for her wonderful photo with son Ryker (2 years old).

The image nets a $1000 Kilwell voucher and will feature on the upcoming fishing licence.

 

Wild your kai winner

Huge congratulations to Des Parker-Munn from Ashurst for taking out our May Wild Your Kai competition!

The winning shot captured that magical opening weekend moment in the Fordell area in the Manawatu-Wanganui region, with Remmy, their "unconventional duck dog" (a collie x heading dog cross who's found her true calling as a water retriever).

Des bagged her first spoonie drake while 10-year-old daughter Ruby shot her first banded mallard with her 20 gauge.

"She's a great hunter and retriever who loves the duck season. Retrieving in the water is her favourite activity," Des says of Remmy, and you can see that passion in action.

For the Parker-Munn family, it's never about the numbers - "It's about being together outdoors, having fun, the great yarns, eating lots of yummy food, and harvesting some beautiful wild meat to take home." This is EXACTLY what #WildYourKai represents!

Des won a $100 Hunting and Fishing voucher, our award-winning cookbook and a Friends of Fish & Game cap in our exclusive species camo.

 

Advocacy update 

NZC Policy has focused on the following items.  

 

Biodiversity Strategy and Predator Free 2050 Strategy Submissions

Submissions have been provided to the Department of Conservation regarding these two strategies at the end of June. You can review them on our website in the corporate documents tab.

National Direction Consultation due 27 July 2025

The RMA team is writing submissions to three of the four packages. Consultants will be assisting with the Freshwater submission. Previously called National Policy Statements, the Government is amending existing and adding new statements called “National Direction”. We will be submitting on the following packages:

• Infrastructure / Renewable Electricity Generation
• Primary Production
• Freshwater

Our final submission will go in on Friday, July 25, and will be available to view in corporate documents soon after on the Fish & Game website.

 

Access Strategy

In conjunction with two RMA team members, we are in the process of scoping this work and aim to develop a strategy. At this time, we are writing a paper for the Minister for Hunting and Fishing covering legislation, access instruments and the need for a co-ordinated multi portfolio approach to restoring access for hunting and fishing recreation. We are also submitting on amendments to the Overseas Investment Act and associated ministerial direction that are likely to result in no new public access being created. 

 

Wildlife Act Amendment

We are working with the Department of Conservation to remedy the issues that have arisen relating to disturb and cull authorisations resulting from a recent ELI judicial review case. A select committee item has been presented by DOC to remedy this issue with a proposed Wildlife Act amendment. Updated authorisations will be provided under s53, s 54 & s56 to regional Fish and Game Councils by DOC asap.

 

The Regulatory Standards Bill

The second round of submissions closed on June 23 and relates to regulation setting. There are concerns that the Bill will result in undermining environmental protection. Environmental Defence Society and the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment’s submissions will be available online in due course.

 

Standing up for for game bird hunters

Alan Strong (Chairman of the NC Council), Richie Cosgrove and Matthew Garrick presented to the Environment Canterbury Council on June 11.

The presentation was in response to a deputation from the Animal Justice Party (AJP) recently calling for an end to duck hunting on Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere (Council Meeting 26 March 2025).

The AJP presentation to the ECan Council was extremely concerning, given the level of misinformation that was shared. There was extensive anecdotal/emotional commentary made without any data or scientific evidence of support. Many statements were made based on incorrect interpretations of legislation, and/or a lack of ecological knowledge in terms of the relevance to game bird hunting.

The purpose of our presentation was to rebut the key messages of the AJP, and also to talk about the environmental/habitat work that Fish & Game and hunters do that have benefits biodiversity well beyond game birds. The presentation was well received by the Council.

HPAI

We continue to monitor international developments with the spread of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI).

Fish & Game is working with MPI to ensure our sector is involved in preparedness. MPI will be the lead response government agency.

 

Signs of HPAI

• The most obvious sign of HPAI in wild birds is several sick or dead birds in a group.
• Waterfowl in particular show signs of drowsiness, lack of coordination, and an inability to fly.

Protecting yourself and preventing the spread

• Avian influenza viruses rarely infect people but it’s important to minimise any risk.
• Avoid sick or dying birds.
• Practice good hygiene if you are handling wild birds.
• Report any find of 3 or more sick or dead birds to the exotic pest and disease hotline 0800 80 99 66.

See more detailed food safety advice and information for hunters on the MPI website and the Avian influenza information for game bird hunters – factsheet  

 

Check, Clean, Dry

Protect Our Waterways: How you can help to stop invasive pests

New Zealand's pristine rivers and lakes face a serious threat from invasive freshwater pests like didymo and the invasive freshwater clams. These destructive organisms can spread with frightening ease – a single drop of water is all it takes to contaminate a new waterway.

The good news? Anglers can play a vital role in protecting our waters by following three simple steps between visits to different waterways:

CHECK Before leaving any river or lake:

South Island recreational freshwater users: Stick to the tried-and-true, pre-clam Check Clean Dry method!

• CHECK: Remove all plant and other material from items that have been in the water
• CLEAN: Mix 10% dishwashing detergent with water, use to soak or scrub all items and leave wet for 10 minutes.
• DRY: Dry items completely and leave for at least 48 hours.

North Island recreational freshwater users: Follow the clam-inclusive Check Clean Dry protocol that will kill the clam as well as other invasives.

• CHECK: Remove anything visible like mud, weed or clams from watercraft and gear. Drain all river or lake water.
• CLEAN: Wash down your gear (including boots) and craft with tap water, not into a stormwater system.
  Use a cleaning treatment for absorbent materials:
  • Soak in hot water (55◦C) for at least 5 minutes OR
  • Soak in 5% household bleach for an hour OR
  • Freeze solid overnight.
• DRY: Dry any areas where water has pooled. Then dry watercraft and gear to touch, inside and out and leave to dry for 2 days.

Remember: If you prefer not to treat your gear, simply dedicate it to a single waterway. This option eliminates any risk of cross-contamination while still allowing you to enjoy fishing.

By following these guidelines, you're helping preserve our waterways for future generations of hunters and anglers. Every precaution counts when it comes to protecting New Zealand's precious freshwater ecosystems.

 

Duck Pizza

Photo: Derek Mitchell

Got some duck in the freezer and wanting some ideas to cook? Check out this recipe for duck pizza.

Feel free to send your own favourite to media@fishandgame.org.nz and you may just get our award-winning cook book in the mail. Photos too please!

• Roast Your Veggies (or use leftovers - even better!)
• Add chopped carrots, onions, kumara, pumpkin, beetroot and parsnip to an oven dish. Coat in oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender.
• Season two duck breasts with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot pan with a little oil and butter - cook slightly under as they'll finish in the oven.
• Coat base with pizza sauce - Layer roast veggies first - Thinly slice duck breast and place on top - Light sprinkle of grated mozzarella (don't go overboard!)
• Cook at high heat on a pizza stone or oven tray for around 10 minutes until base is cooked through. Then drizzle with that game-changing truffle mayo (just $6 from Woolworths!).

Credit: Derek Mitchell and Hamish Carnachan

Winter Wonderland - Mid-June in Mckenzie Basin 

 Lake Alexandrina last month