One of the key responsibilities of being an editor for a hunting magazine lies in promoting the positive side of the outdoors, the benefits we experience and being a voice for hunters in New Zealand. It means standing up and having open and honest discussions about what we’re passionate about, having the debates, and at times, taking the criticisms that come with it.

This issue, I’ve written a very personal article about how the outdoors, hunting and fishing have positively impacted my health as at times, I’ve struggled with poor mental health. It’s tough being that honest and open in an article – however, to represent the NZ hunting community, sometimes I must be vulnerable and honest. If we can all be honest about how the outdoors benefits us – in whatever manner – we educate those around us. We also need to encourage our men to have more open honest talks with our whanau if we’re experiencing any poor mental health. Our record of male suicide is terrible here in Aotearoa. Taking the first step of telling those around us or seeking professional help start the journey to change our lives for the better. From the outside looking in, often you may know someone whom you worry about but aren’t sure what to do for them or how to help. Get good advice, and if necessary, have the open honest conversation with them – it can make all the difference.

The team at NZRod&Rifle are passionate about bringing you the best advice, best articles, and balanced reviews – not only to experienced hunters, but also to those just starting out. Our survival lies in winning the middle ground – the everyday Kiwi who might have an uncle who hunts but have never tried it themselves, or the city person who doesn’t think about our mountains and forests but would be open to trying to fill their freezer with healthy, lean game meat. Our survival lies in encouraging and assisting the growing population of female hunters who, in more ways than one, are bringing fresh perspective to our community. You’ll seldom convince the extremist anti-hunters of the vital role we play in this country, although predation and hunting are an integral part of any healthy ecosystem. The battle for hunters and hunting rights in New Zealand is multi-faceted, but we all have a role to play.

With the Roar just gone, remember that NZRod&Rifle is about you telling your stories – your successes, failures and adventures. Yes, we put it together, but at its heart, it’s your magazine. Without you, the writer, we don’t have a magazine. If you have a story worth telling or a significant trophy or personal best, get in touch with us. There’s no better way to honour your adventure than having it published in a hunting magazine.