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Editor’s Letter – July/August 2024

My Thoughts …

There have been a few big changes at NZRod&Rifle head office. Previous owners Phil and Jo Caira have sold the magazine, and I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome the new owners, Harry Bodle and Tayla Fouhy. Harry was brought up in a farming family and has been working as a qualified builder, but he’s also a keen hunter, so keep an eye out for his articles in upcoming magazines. Tayla is also from a farming background, in the Waikato, and currently a structural engineer. It’s been a pleasure to work with Phil and Jo and I wish them the best of luck with their next ventures. I’m sure you’ll still see Phil’s articles pop up in the magazine from time to time, and I look forward to his article about the tahr that eluded us in the Karangaruas last year.

I recently flew with Scott and the team at Methven Heli Rural into the Mathias area and was promptly wet and cold for six days; living in a tent with my mates in rainy conditions, we never really warmed up except after getting into our sleeping bags. Given these conditions, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was a disaster – however, that’s not how hunting works! We all had an amazing time, and eating fresh backstrap with Tabasco Jalapeno sauce while curled up around a fuel stove are some of my best memories of the Roar. Every hunt is an adventure for different reasons, and each has its own unique challenges, which all add to the rich experience that is hunting. The demanding, difficult hunts all amplify the fulfilment when things go well on other hunts. Thanks to Scott at Heli Rural for the great service and for the advice – I’m already planning my next adventure.

Recently, Forest & Bird challenged the legitimacy of the Wapiti Ballot and whether it was in keeping with the regulations laid out for National Parks. At the time of writing, the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation, supported by the Game Animal Council, the New Zealand Deer Stalkers Association and the Fish and Game Council – as well as most of the other hunting advocacy groups – have entered a period of discussion. At this stage, it’s not certain that the legal battle will go ahead. In my opinion, a loss for Forest & Bird would be a step towards legitimising our Herds of Special Interest. Given the new top cover and advocacy we have with Hunting and Fishing Minister Todd McClay, having Herds of Special Interest recognised would be a monumental shift in the mindset and attitude towards our valued game animals. Our wapiti are an amazing asset to New Zealand as are our tahr and other game animals – unique in their own ways, stunning creatures – and for me, one of the best things about living in NZ is the freedom we have in hunting them.

Stay safe and shoot straight! 

– Dave Benfell

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