My Thoughts …

The time has come, team; this will be my last editorial for NZRod&Rifle. It’s been an absolute pleasure to edit and work with the NZRod&Rifle team over the years. I’ve written one last article (see page 29) about my journey to being editor of two of NZ’s remaining three hunting magazines. Although writing about yourself is difficult, it’s been an incredible journey – I’ve had some amazing experiences and met some very special people along the way. I’ve loved featuring your stories – particularly the family aspect of hunting, which has also been so key in my own life.

As a community, we’ve come a long way; the gains of the last seven to eight years have been monumental, and I’m extremely proud of how we’ve conducted ourselves. There is one aspect I’m concerned about, however, that’s thermal use on Public Conservation Land (PCL). The hunting community and many of its influencers have largely been quiet about it, and I can see that the potential in-fighting it may cause is problematic. I believe there are many special herds in NZ that will be susceptible to behaviour changes by thermals – not all but some. Yes, it does have some conservation benefits by increasing animals culled, but for one, I don’t believe it’s safe when in the wrong hands. This battle is best fought outside of NZRod&Rifle – the new owners, Harry and Tayla, are amazing and didn’t sign up to deal with a disgruntled editor!

I’d like to congratulate Harry and Tayla on how they’ve grown the magazine already and can’t wait to see where it goes. Their energy, vision and passion are clear to see, and I can’t think of two better people to steer NZRod&Rifle into the future.

To all the writers, advertisers and hunting personalities I’ve met and worked with over the years, thank you for your support. Seeing this magazine, which I’ve read since a boy, continue and grow is so important to me. Hopefully, my two boys will one day read my stack of hunting magazines, page to page, multiple times – as I read my father’s as a boy.

For the final time, team … tight lines, hot barrels and safe journeys!