Ballots for 2026 Gamebird Hunting season are now open for junior and novice game bird hunters to access maimais and hunting permits at Otago Fish & Game's managed wetlands.  

Otago Fish & Game has six managed wetlands where licence holders can hunt game birds.

  • Takitakitoa (four mai-mais)
  • Inch Clutha (allocated areas for two groups but no mai-mais) Note: a mobility impaired accessible mai-mai is currently being constructed at location #2 and may be available for the 2026 season. Please enquire at our office 03 4779076.
  • Toko Mouth (one mai-mai)
  • Otokia (two mai-mais)
  • Waitepeka (two ponds, no mai-mais)
  • Paerau Wetland (no permanent stands – preferably suited for a hunter with a portable blind)     

A junior hunter must be accompanied by an adult (one adult per junior).

Each permit is for a total of two hunters. 

Balloted permits for the opening period, May 2-10, are limited.

The ballot will be closed on February 1st , 2026. The draw will be held on February 2nd , 2026.

Hunters must have current game bird and firearms licences before entering the wetlands.