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STRAIGHTOUTTALOCKDOWN

NATEX

THE WAIT PAID OFF

COVID UPDATE

A U C K L A N D B R A N C H

THE B SHT E L E G R A P H

J U N E 2 0 2 0

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President's Report

We have also planned our AGM for 11th August 2020. I would encourage everyone to consider joining the committee and if you are unsure about what is involved, drop me a line or approach one of the current committee members at the next club night.

During lockdown time, we also took the opportunity to mount some exotic heads kindly donated by Glen Stein. This was well overdue, and they look great next to the trophy cabinet.

Now the country is at Level 2 we are able to get out in the hills, which will be a great feeling for most of us. Our first party hunt after the Covid lockdown is happening on Queens Birthday weekend, one I always look forward to and which takes place at Galatea. The main target is Rusa deer where we are usually successful and hopefully this year will be no different.

The duck hunters amongst us will be happy the season has now started although

Cover PhotoJJ with his Franchi Affinity 3, Straight outta lock down.Photo Credit: Damon Jones

Greetings to all, The month of May saw the Club room renovations complete and the Club is now back in working order for our next Club night, June 9th!

There are a few internal things still to do, including clearing the back storage which we will try to get done during a working bee. Please contact me if you are interested in helping out!

On the subject of working bees, before our range can open it needs a major clean up, so Arthur has put aside this coming weekend (the 6th and 7th of June) to undertake this work. Please, if you are able to spare even 1/2 a day, contact Arthur on either (09) 846 1946 or range@deerstalkers.co.nz. Entry times will be 9.00am Saturday and Sunday and also 1.00pm on Saturday. If you are able to make it, could you pack your gardening tools, wheelbarrows and for the builders amongst us, your tools would also be a huge help!

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A U C K L A N D B R A N C H

THE B SHT E L E G R A P H

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a little later than usual. Wouldn’t it have been great if we could have got the message through to the Red, Sika and Fallow deer to hold off their roars a few weeks as well!

Great to back to semi normality!Happy hunting.

Callum SheridanAUCKLAND BRANCH PRESIDENT

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JUNECLUBNIGHT

WE'RE BACK!!7PM TUESDAY 9THSEE YOU THERECOME CHECK OUT THE NEW ROOF

Q&AI got in a standoff with a deer a couple

of days ago. It was barking at me from about 20m away but out of sight behind some thick stuff. This went on for about 10 mins until I thought I heard it bark from much further away. So I sat down behind my tree to have a snack. Took pack off etc. then got barked at from close again. In standing up managed to dislodge my pack which rolled down the hill, but still deer barking at me. After another 5 mins I decided to sneak in, and I scared it off for real.

So the question is, if you stick to your guns and wait it out for long enough, is there a chance that curiosity will get the better of them, and they’ll show? Or do they just get tired of it and disappear. I knew that I didn’t really stand a chance of sneaking round it.

So frustrating being so close!Andy Georgetti Hi Andy, from Mike.Nice to get so close, but frustrating you

didn’t see it.She was obviously on to you, knew

something was up but hadn’t confirmed it by smell. Maybe she’d just heard a bit of noise or saw some movement. If she had smelt you she would be gone and probably wouldn’t have barked.

From my experience once they start barking its pretty hard to get close. Sitting

tight is an option and you aren’t losing anything by doing so. The deer might come in but probably not.

As it is on full alert, trying to stalk it will be pretty difficult as it will be standing still and will pick up any movement you make. They seem to love to put a patch of shitty scrub/bush between you and them then tease you.

Something which may work is to try the odd squeak like a fawn or a hind as, if they haven’t seen you or have just caught a bit of movement, they may think you are another deer and they can get inquisitive.

Again nothing to be lost by trying. There are some mouth calls you can buy which imitate the hind/fawn call and some do a very good sika imitation.

If you do try to stalk in on them keep your eyes out for other deer as if it is a hind there is often a yearling or another deer with them and you may get a crack at that. The yearlings are often not quite as smart.

If they do decide to come in they can be incredibly quiet. Many times in the roar I have been sitting giving the odd roar and getting no replies then an animal suddenly appears or crashes off from just a few metres away. They have snuck in without a sound, even through real tight rubbish. How they do it with a set of antlers on their head I don’t know.

Good luck and great to hear you are getting out and about.

Any tips for more success while bush stalking? Frequently stalking in practically on top of them before spooking, but only when there’s thick stuff between us with no luck of seeing nor getting a shot. #gettingdesperate #sendhelp #idontwanttosuckathuntinganymore

Olle Powel

Hi Olle from Callum. #GOSLOWER #LOOKHARDER #ITWILLHAPPEN

What is your preference suppressor or

no suppressor, i have been toying with the idea of adding a suppressor but not liking the idea of the added weight. what are the pros & cons?

Anthony Jones

Hi Anthony from Brent.Extra weight Vs gain. - Suppressors.Most suppressors are quite light now, my

DPT weighs 285 grams, I use an over barrel version so not all of the weight / extra length is added to the end of the rifle.

You can offset some of the extra weight / length if you shorten your barrel, if you think you need too.

I use one on a 308 with a short barrel and also on a 30-06 with a 22” barrel and to be honest don’t notice the difference when carrying it with or without.

A suppressor usually reduces recoil making the firearm nicer to shoot, and

OUR EXPERTS ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS.SEND IN YOUR QUESTIONS TO BT@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

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Q&Acont.Each month the club arranges hunts to different areas & you’re welcome to join! If you're new to the club or just want to gain experience & confidence in the bush

this is certainly a great opportunity. Click here to register via our website. If you need more info email partyhunts@deerstalkers.co.nz

PARTY HUNTSCALENDAR

BLAZE ORANGE CLOTHING & HATS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL CLUB ORGANISED HUNTS

JULY Lachie Campbell

AUGUST Brent Panckhurst Whakatane Fly-In

ALL PARTY HUNTS START WITHSAFETY1. IDENTIFY YOUR TARGET – DON’T SHOOT AT MOVEMENT OR SOUND2. CHECK YOUR FIRING ZONE3. UNLOAD YOUR FIREARMS BEFORE ENTERING CAMP4. ALCOHOL & FIREARMS DO NOT MIX5. DISCUSS YOUR HUNTING PLAN DAILY WITH OTHERS IN YOUR GROUP6. MAP / COMPASS / GPS / BASIC BUSH CRAFT KNOWLEDGE, ARE ESSENTIAL ITEMS7. NZDA RECOMMEND THAT ALL PARTICIPANTS WEAR BLAZE ORANGE WHEN HUNTING

2020

ONLY $11.50 per person, as part of the clubrooms roof rebuild project.

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Photo Credit: Hayden Morse

Let it walk? Or age it on the ground?Guess the age & send in your thoughts to BT@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ we will share all your guesses in the next BT.

AGE THE DEER

allowing you to remain on target after the shot easier.

The reduction in noise quite often allows for a second shot at an animal if needed or at another animal that may be there, as they search for where the noise came from.

It is definitely friendlier on your 4 legged hunting mates and who ever may be with you, it also won’t disturb your hunting area as much.

In my opinion the advantage of reduced noise and recoil outweighs the extra weight of the suppressor.

Hi Anthony from Callum. My first hunting rifle was non suppressed and since changing rifles I wouldn’t go back, especially for bush stalking, the weight is pretty minimal and

at the end of the day if your hunting you would be hoping to carry meat out so a few hundred grams on the end of your bang stick shouldn’t matter, it does your hearing a favour too!

Hi Anthony from Mike.Personally, no suppressor as I am old

school, like the look of an unadulterated rifle and a suppressor can change the balance of the rifle. Often to fit a suppressor requires shortening of the barrel and this leads to a reduction in velocity of approx. 25 - 50 feet per second. But I can certainly see the advantages with reduced felt recoil and particularly how a suppressor reduces and spreads the noise. This more often than not confuses the animal as to where the shot came from and can lead to more

opportunities of a second or third shot, which is very useful if more than one animal is present. Due to the reduced noise other animals within close proximity do not seem to be as alarmed and therefore other hunting opportunities in the same general area are not ruined.

PLEASE NOTE; THE VIEWS & OPINIONS OF INDIVIDUALS ARE THAT ONLY & IN NO WAY WOULD BE WHAT EVERYBODY AGREES WITH, WE ENCOURAGE YOUR FEEDBACK AND INVOLVEMENT IN THE Q & A SECTION EVEN IF IT TO ADD TO A PREVIOUS Q OR A IN THE NEXT BT.SEND QUESTIONS TO BT@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

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THIS IS A MUST FOR NEW OR INEXPERIENCED HUNTERS! AREAS COVERED - NAVIGATION, COMPASS & MAP READING, GEAR & WHAT TO TAKE, HOW TO STALK, WHAT TO LOOK FOR & BASIC BUSH SKILLS.THE TRAINING RUNS 1 NIGHT A WEEK FOR 6 WEEKS INCLUDES A DAY AT THE RANGE CLICK HERE TO REGISTER OR VISIT DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ/EVENTSENQUIRIES CONTACT BRENT@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZPARTICIPANTS MUST BE AUCKLAND NZDA MEMBERS.

only $75pp

STARTS 8TH OF JULY - IN THE CLUB ROOMS.

HUNTER TRAINING

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MIKE MORSEThe vibration and noise reduce as the skids touch the ground and the

pilot winds back the revs. But this brief lull is only followed by a frantic rush to unload supplies, gear and rifle. Time is everything to these guys. Within minutes the power is being applied, rotors spinning faster and faster, leaves and dust battering you as you crouch low in the safe zone. The chopper lifts off and soon the “whomp-whomp-whomp” recedes to nothing, replaced by that wonderful sense of absolute peace only to be found in a remote New Zealand valley. The quiet and stillness is overwhelming, and it seems everything is holding its breath. But slowly you tune into your surroundings and things come to life. In the background is the perpetual splash and burble of the nearby river busily rushing over boulders from one pool to the next. A flock of whiteheads begin noisily chattering away as they busily search for insects in the nearby trees and the “kek-kek-kek-kek” of a falcon draws your eyes to the rapid wing beats of a little speck high in a cloudless sky. A light breeze begins sighing through the tops of the surrounding beech and soon the cicadas crank back up to their deafening summer crescendo. The bush is vibrant, alive. Isn’t it great to be back? All the pressures of work and living in this increasingly confused world quickly fall away, pushed to a little backwater of your consciousness and not to resurface until the chopper returns.

An hour later camp has been established on a terrace well above the river, safe from any unexpected floods. Shelter is just a square of black polythene stretched between a couple of handy Kanukas but will do.

THROUGH MY EYESNo tent this trip, it’s the height of summer and the long range forecast is for settled weather. A deep bed of moss is collected, providing a good base for the inflatable mat, and the sleeping bag rolled out ready for a return, probably well after dark. With a quick brew under the belt it’s time to grab the day pack, throw in the swannie (just in case), plus a couple of chocolate bars to keep up energy levels. A quick look around to make sure everything is in order then you shoulder the rifle and are gone.

A steady katabatic breeze is blowing upriver, so the decision is made to cross, climb a leading ridge and then begin sidling around the Beech clad faces into the wind. As you get to the river edge two big rainbows in the tail of the pool depart rapidly tail to the deeper head of the pool. Not to worry, they’ll be back on station later, hopefully trout for tea tomorrow. Entering the pool well above the rapids you move across and downstream with the current, a handy manuka pole providing extra stability amongst the slippery boulders. Even after months of summer heat that first river crossing still causes a sharp intake of breath as the water level creeps up above your belt. Why do those back country rivers always look so shallow until you are halfway across?

Initially the bush is thick, an undergrowth of tangled Coprosma and Mingimingi beneath the Beech canopy making going difficult. No chance of keeping quiet in this stuff. The sweat is soon flowing, stinging your eyes and running down your back as you push on uphill, sometimes on your knees, other times clambering over the tangled scrub. Soon the going becomes slightly easier, a vague game trail beginning to form

allowing you to walk more upright and with much less noise. Half an hour later a few hundred metres have been gained, the sound of the river has receded, and the bush is beginning to open out. Visibility increases, but unfortunately the tangled undergrowth has now been replaced by dense, waist high Crownfern. Pushing through this is just as noisy, the stiff leaves rasping against each other warning anything nearby of your approach. However, your interest has increased, a few little piles of shiny black shit pointing to animals being around. Time to drop the pace and begin sidling, a few carefully placed steps at a time. Initially the Crownfern belt extends both up and down slope as far as you can see making quiet going impossible but in the next gully head, a hundred metres further on, it thins out and is soon replaced by groves of Pepperwood. It’s much cooler here, the light pumice soil damp, a strong smell of earth and leaf litter pervading the whole area. Neat little hoofprints are sharply etched into the dark black soil amongst scattered low clumps of Hookgrass, their short stems heavily laden with black seeds and patiently waiting to catch a ride on a passing hairy leg or some fleece trou. Time to stop, look and listen - the area is just screaming “deer”. Ten minutes later you catch some movement and your hand moves toward you rifle. But no, it’s a false alarm as a dark grey bush Robin on spindly legs flits in to a nearby branch. He cocks his head, focusing on something nearby and darts down to pick up a moth just in front of your boots. Totally unafraid, his beady little eyes stare up at you then he is gone again flitting from trunk to trunk back into the gloom. Another five minutes of sitting and patience wears thin, it is time to move

HUNT STORY

on. However, only two steps are taken when, with a nerve shattering squeal, a deer erupts from the Pepperwood grove twenty metres in front. All you see is a grey blur and a flash of a white bum patch, not a chance of even getting rifle to shoulder. Sneaky little bitch, she must have been watching you the whole time. For the next ten minutes her agitated whistles, chirps and squeals mock you, drawing you on, always with that faint hope of catching her out but slowly putting more and more distance between her and you and eventually fading away.

Moving over the next spur the bush opens out. Gone is the Crownfern, shitty undergrowth and Pepperwood, these replaced by majestic, towering Red Beech, their massive trunks rising from huge buttressed roots to a canopy thirty metres above. Visibility has increased to almost a hundred metres with only sparse undergrowth and the ground carpeted in dry, noisy, cornflake sized leaf litter. Closer to the creek, where a little more light is getting in, the odd Mountain Cabbage tree with broad, sword shaped leaves, stands proud above the smaller Pongas and Waterfern. Your squealing little lady has ruined any chance of catching anyone unawares here though so it’s time to sit back and relax, let the nerves unwind and the mind refocus. There are not many things more peaceful than lying under a Red Beech canopy looking up at the dappled sunlight filtering through whilst listening to the “zit-zit-zit” of a couple of bumblebee sized Riflemen flitting from trunk to trunk. In the warmth of the afternoon sun you soon fall into a fitful doze but are awoken by an irritating, shiny blue bummed blowfly which just refuses to leave you alone. It’s time to get on the move again,

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HUNT STORY

and anyway, the sun is well into its downward arc. Hopefully by now, any deer will have settled, their minds focused back on feeding rather than imminent danger.

Keeping just below the crest of the spur and following the edge of the open Red Beech you slowly sidle, using height to your advantage to look into the little side creek below. There’s been plenty of animal activity here, the leaf fall from the Beech trees obviously providing a good food source. The creek is tightening up, little rocky bluffs and outcrops increasing, so no doubt there’ll be a waterfall or two lower down before you get to the river. Best stay high and don’t get sucked into what looks like easier travelling in the creek bottom. A hundred metres on and you are just working your way through some deadfall when, “crack”. Instant pause and wait, motionless. A minute becomes five, then ten. Not a sound. Just when you have decided it’s your imagination and are about to move there’s another “crack”. Nope, it’s an animal all right, and close. Rifle is raised, bolt on half cock ready to silently close when complete id is made. A little rustling indicates the animal is moving again, coming closer. Must be just over that low rise ahead. Seconds later a beautifully spotted Sika hind slowly moves into full view. Head down she is seemingly oblivious to danger daintily picking up fallen leaves as she goes. But then that instinct which has kept her alive so far kicks in. Her demeanour suddenly changes, and her head comes up sharply, shiny black eyes with long lashes instantly focusing on you. With a big tree trunk at your back your shape is not so obvious and she is unsure, pausing until danger is confirmed. Unluckily for her, what little breeze there is does not favour her this time. Even still, her nose is working overtime, desperately sucking in whatever smells are drifting on the air but there is no scent of her worst nightmare, you. Slowly closing the bolt, you centre the crosshairs on her chest and begin to take up the pressure. You have outwitted her, and her time is up. A fraction of a second before the trigger travels the full distance, she becomes a blur, spinning around and disappearing back over the spur. Gone in an instant. With a slight smile you lower the rifle and slowly the nerves settle and the heart rate drops. Beaten again.

Are you disappointed? Yes and no. It would have been nice to return to camp with a deer, have one strung up from a handy branch for when the chopper returns, proof of your ability. On the other hand, what an experience to have had. How can you forget that moment when time seemed to stand still? That dainty little face with liquid black eyes staring at you, shiny nose wet with little droplets of moisture. So full of vitality. You have been a hunter all your life, gone through those years when the success of a hunt was mostly measured by bodies on the ground. Partly it was an ego thing, proving to yourself, and to you mates, how good a hunter you were but also partly as a result of the chopper pressure during those early times. The philosophy of, “if you don’t shoot it, they will”.

But, as the years have passed, your outlook has slowly changed. Every hunt is special for one reason or another and shooting an animal is no longer the measure. It has become harder and harder to pull the trigger as compassion for the animal you hunt has grown. Increasingly the hunts that stick in your memory are those where you locate your quarry then just sit and watch, maybe take a photo or two, enjoy the moment, then back out leaving them undisturbed. A hunt where you have proved your ability as a hunter and have the knowledge that you could have pulled the trigger, but this time chose not to. Finally, you have come of age as a hunter.

CONGRATULATIONS MIKE YOU’VE WON A $40 VOUCHER COURTESY OF OUR SPONSOR

SERIOUS SHOOTERS COLLECT YOUR PRIZE AT NEXT CLUB NIGHT

If you’ve got a story to tell, send it in with some photos to: bt@deerstalkers.co.nz

& go in the draw to WIN!

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New Zealand’s guided hunting industry has been severely impacted by COVID-19 and is appealing for support from domestic hunters looking for a unique hunting experience.

“Guided hunting was worth over $50 million a year to the New

Zealand economy and provided primarily international visitors with fantastic Kiwi hunting experiences on both private and public land,” says Game Animal Council General Manager Tim Gale. “It has also been an extremely important employer in provincial regions and has a low impact on our environment.”

“It really has been a New Zealand tourism success story.” “The reality is with COVID-19 having decimated the international

tourist market hunting guides, game estates and other commercial operators are facing a very uncertain time and many may be forced to consider their future in the industry,” says Safari Club International New Zealand President Mike Knowles.

“With New Zealand leading the world in combatting COVID-19,

the recovery period presents a unique opportunity for New Zealand hunters to get out there and support local New Zealand businesses while having some fantastic hunting experiences.”

“Our members would love to take Kiwi hunters on guided

hunts, where they can go after the trophy of a lifetime or put high quality free-range meat in the freezer,” says Knowles. “At the same time, they can learn new hunting skills from some of the very best hunters in New Zealand.”

Many hunting operators are reconfiguring their offerings to

cater to the different skills, experience and budgets of domestic hunters.

New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association

President James Cagney explains that the travel and logistics of

FROM NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

Hunting industry requires domestic

support

NZ Game Animal Council, SCI (NZ), NZPHGAMedia Statement 20 May 2020

going hunting can be difficult and typically involve a significant investment in both money and time.

“With many hunters having less time on their hands due to work

commitments post-COVID-19, the benefit of going on a guided hunt is that they can maximise the time they have with the best possible opportunity for success.”

“This applies to both managed herds on private land as well

as using local guides to hunt for high quality animals on public conservation land.”

While Kiwi hunters are rightfully proud of our ‘get-out-there and

do-it-yourself’ attitude there will be many that have often thought they would like to do a trip with a guide or on a game estate,” says Tim Gale. “Well, there will never be a better time, and what better justification is there than to help support Kiwi businesses struggling in the aftermath of COVID-19.”

CONTACT:

Tim GalePhone: 021688531tim.gale@nzgac.org.nz Mike KnowlesPhone: 021 515 423president@scinz.com James CagneyPhone: 0274 507 280jamescagneynz@gmail.com

RYAN WOON'S FIRST POST

COVID-19 HUNT & ALSO FIRST 6

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OH MAIMAI

TEST FIRE

JUSTIN JONESMy cousin in Coatesville called to say "there were loads of ducks

landing on his pond", with the Covid level dropping he could invite me to join him on opening weekend to his newly built Mai-mai.

Having spent the pandemic 'itching' to get out with a bang stick I jumped at the opportunity. "Oh wait" I said, "I need a shotty".

After a few calls, Chris at Beretta lined me up with a Franchi Affinity 3 semi auto & I was off to the HUS lodge not 30mins from Auckland loaded with Federal Black cloud for us both.

The traffic was crazy, I stopped into H&F on the shore to pick up a caller. The caller I'd bought two years before, as it turns out was for a Paradise duck and not a Mallard which is the duck of preference at his place.

PHOTGRAPHERS: DAMON JONES & JJ

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We were up hours before dark and worked our way with his dog 'Diesel' down to the pond. As we approached ducks began chatting. We squatted behind some brush waiting for the day to rise and for the ducks to settle. Sitting in the frosty air the pond went quiet. Some whispers between us devised a plan to head in either direction around the scrub as soon as we could see clearly. Checking regularly if we could see across the field we had crossed behind us. It was still very dark but the dawn was coming. Every second more shapes became visible. The ducks started to chatter again, we guessed maybe 15 on the pond. It was clear they were not alert to our presence and we were hopeful for a great start and a few notches to the score board. Twenty minutes had passed and suddenly without warning the ducks began to chatter and one by

TEST FIRE

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one they flew off in darkness. All quiet "damn" I said, and in within minutes we could start

to see, moving into position the pond was empty. 'BOOM BOOM BOOM' rang out in the distance.

"Those were our ducks" my cousin was saying rolling his eyes. We legged it around to the Mai Mai. Once settled in and pouring coffees, we let off a few calls and waited. Next thing a bunch of ducks swooped in, Damon was excitedly saying under his breath "here they come, get ready to cut them down". I was ready as they circled to land 'BOOM BOOM BOOM' Damon emptied his semi while I was trying to find the safety "arrghhh" with birds at almost point blank we laughed at our amateur approach.

"Ok lets get serious" I said. The dog was going berserk thinking Damon had shot three birds and it took him some convincing to let Diesel down. During which another bunch of ducks flew in while I did my best to discreetly alert Damon. They caught a glimpse and didn't circle again.

We suddenly remembered our shooting window was wide open and exposed, with a quick burst of fern scrambling we were again in total cover. More ducks landed but on the furthest side of the pond "we need to wait til they are airborne" Damon said. The wait was intense, it was great they felt comfortable to stay but they were way out of range. "They are the best looking Drakes" Damon said hoping they would take off in our direction but alas after thirty minutes of preening and waddling around the pond edge they decided to relocate without giving us an opportunity. Moments later a bunch of very large ducks flew in & I got two. "YES" I said. Diesel brought in two dead Canadian Geese while I recounted "you can shoot Canadian Geese year round" more rolling eyes. We sat and waited again, Damon noted how much of a smooth shooting shotty I had. I couldn't agree more. It was the lightest weight shotgun I had used and the action was so smooth. I barely noticed any recoil and didn't need earplugs. Apart from not discovering the safety on/off position, I was now in love with this shotgun. It loaded with ease & everything I shot at, I hit with deadly precision.

Just then, two ducks flew in, BOOM BOOM and Diesel was in the water recovering again. 'One a piece'. More coffee and some homemade bacon & egg pie, more chatter and more ducks flew by without a shot whilst not on guard, more rolling eyes.

Next thing another flock of Canadians flew in and we both blasted a shot each, BOOM BOOM two more geese in the pond. "Damn it, where are the ducks" I said. Damon replied they'll be here this evening" Unfortunately I couldn't stay. Happy with my shooting (when not on safety) we waited out the rest of the morning while hearing a vast array of shots from neighbouring farms. "Three each isn't great after our amateur hour" Damon said "we really should have shot at least 10 each like last year but, its more than enough meat"!. So we pulled pin and headed out to breast the duck for lunch with a nice red.

I packaged the rest of the meat, "Take it all, I'll get em' all tonight" Damon grinned, and I know he will.

I look forward to my next and third only duck hunt. I'm pretty new to it, but its certainly exciting when they come around.

TEST FIRE

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TEST FIRE

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AUCKLAND BRANCH

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BEST SCENIC PHOTO

AUCKLAND BRANCH TROPHY

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ITS ESSENTIAL TO PROVIDE A DIGITAL COPY TO

MIKEM@DEERSTALKERS .CO.NZ AS WELL AS A PRINTED

PHOTO AT 5X7"

ALL ENQUIRIES EMAIL MIKEM@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

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BEST HUMAN INTEREST PHOTO

H.GARRICK TROPHY

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BEST WILD GAME PHOTO

WATSON WILMER TROPHY

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BEST SMALL GAME PHOTO

KEITH GULLIVER TROPHY

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I __________________________ am a financial member of NZDA Auckland Branch both at the time these photos were taken and when entered into this competition. I have read and understand the NZDA rules that apply to this competition and agree to abide by them. Refer to the Auckland NZDA website / Members section / Competitions.

Signed ______________________________

BEST GAME/TRAIL CAM PHOTO

KURT BRIGGS MEMORIAL

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Post Entries to: Mike Morse, 165 Gervin Rd., RD2, SilverdaleEmail digital copies to mikem@deerstalkers.co.nz

WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT THE ANNUAL PRIZE GIVING NIGHT. ALL ENQUIRIES EMAIL MIKEM@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

Bob Hayes Cup- Best Head of any Species

Tisdall Cup- Best Red Head

CAC Cup- Best North Island Red Head

Boyd Meyer Memorial Trophy- Most Symmetrical Red Head

Darrell Wong- Bush Hunters Trophy Best South Island Red Head

Burns Brassel Trophy- Best Sika Head

Mrs Hayes Trophy- Best Whitetail Head

Sportways Shield- Best Fallow Head

Glen Mc Gregor Cup- Best Thar Head

ANTLERHORN & TUSK COMP

Gary Paykel Trophy- Best Chamois

Frank Brycko Trophy- Best Pig Tusks(Drawn)

D.Semmens Trophy- Best Goat

Mrs Welch Trophy- Best Head of a 1st Year Stalker

D.Welch Trophy- Best Head of any Species taken on Branch Party Hunt

Branch Trophy- Provider of the Most Game Meat for Branch Function

Frank Brycko Memmorial Trophy- Hunter/Range Shooting: Highest Aggregate Score

J.Dillion Shield- Roaring Competition

G.May Trophy- Best Deer Skin

Auckland Branch Trophy- Best Head of Any Species Taken by a Lady Member

A.Stewart Memmorial Shield- Goat with the Largest Spread Taken by a Hunter under 20yrs

Top Gun Trophy- Best Heads of any 2 Different Species

Noble Trophy- Best Non Deer Skin

A.Gregory Trophy- Best Head of Any Species Taken by a Hunter aged 16-21yrs

Mark Allmon Youth Cup- Best Head of Any Species Taken by a hunter 16yrs or younger.

ENTRY & CLOSING FRIDAY 6PM 19TH JUNEITS MEASURE NIGHT - BRING ALL HEADS TO THE CLUB. MAKE SURE ALL HEADS ARE CLEAN & ODOR FREE - CONTACT RICHARD@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

ONO

KINDLY DONATED BY MIKE MORSE

GET YOUR STORY PUBLISHED IN THE BT & YOU COULD WIN A ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO A NZ HUNTING MAGAZINE OF YOUR CHOICE IN NZDA AUCKLAND’S “BEST WRITTEN CONTRIBUTION” ANNUAL COMPETITION.

PUT PEN TO PAPER & WIN!

30

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REDDING PRESSES & DIES (UNLESS ALREADY ON SPECIAL)

5% OFF RELOADING COMPONENTS (CASES & PROJECTILES)

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FOR NZDA AUCKLAND BRANCH MEMBERS

31

Date:

Entry Number:

MEMBER NAME ____________________________________________________________________

SPECIES ______________________________________________________________________________

LOCATION ANIMAL SHOT _______________________________________________________

M F AGE IF UNDER 22

TAKEN ON A PARTY HUNT YES NO

I ______________________________________ declare I was a financial member of the NZDA Auckland

Branch both at the time this Trophy Head was taken and when entered into this competition,

I killed the animal entered, no trophy fee paid and animal not taken with spotlight. Have read and

understand the NZDA rules that apply to this competition and agree to abide by them.

Signed: ____________________________________________

New Zealand Deerstalkers Association – Auckland Branch. Address PO BOX 44-301, Point Chevalier, Aucklandw: www.deerstalkers.co.nz | e: auckland@deerstalkers.co.nz

DATE ANIMAL SHOT ________________________________________________________________

NORTHISLAND

SOUTHISLAND

Member Financial: ________________________ Douglas Score

Membership No. ________________________

FOR OFFICE USE, ONLY

AUCKLAND BRANCH

HUNTING TROPHYENTRY FORM 2020

32 33

Each month the club is looking to arrange an experience or knowledge based activity. If you want to gain experience & confidence or even just a refresher -

this is certainly a great opportunity - for more info email Dan@deerstalkers.co.nz

If you're interested in joining a workshop, get in touch with the organiser - the earlier you do the better!

2020CALENDAR

WORKSHOPJun 17th 2020 - FIREARMS SET UP $15 Arthur Winterton

July (TBC) - PLANT ID $15 Mike Morse

MINGIMINGI LEUCOPOGON FASCICULATUS

A small shrubby bush growing up to 5m tall and which can form a tough, somewhat tangled bush with strong springy branches and trunk. Produces numerous, narrow, elongated and quite pointed leaves about 2 -2.5cm long with small white, highly scented, flowers in spring. The small red berries are edible. Frequently encountered in drier areas from the coast to the subalpine down to Canterbury, often forming much of the understorey of kanuka/manuka and open beech forest. Prickly Mingimingi (a different species) has similar prickly leaves and is generally found in much the same areas but has much larger edible pink or white berries. Coprosma propinqua is unrelated but also goes under the same name and is a tangled shrub with small leaves and often small blue berries. None appear to feature in the deer’s diet but you will become very familiar with them as they often make bush travel and quiet stalking difficult.

GET TO KNOW THE BUSH WITH MIKE MORSE

BROOMCHARMICHAELIA SPP

There are a number of species in NZ ranging from small prostrate shrubs to small trees. A legume (nitrogen fixer) it occurs across a wide variety of habitats from coastal to mountain environments. Are very hardy, often occurring in raw exposed habitats particularly favouring the dry, open South Island areas. A very “twiggy” shrub seldom having leaves and producing small, pea like flowers. Is a pretty nondescript type of plant but some, such as the weeping tree broom in Marlborough, can produce spectacular displays of pink flowers. Frequently grazed by deer, chamois and other herbivores which has resulted in some species becoming quite rare in their natural habitat. The native broom should not be confused with the European broom which produces blanket displays of bright yellow flowers in spring but is a highly invasive species particularly through the Central North Island and much of the South Island.

BUSH ED.

BROOM

MINGIMINGI

34 35

RANGE REPORT

AUCKLAND BRANCH BENCH REST COMPETITION

NORTH AUCKLAND NZDA RANGE.

WORKING BEE

The Auckland Branch has six trophys in this class. The classes are, Unlimited, Heavy varmint, Light varmint, Sporter, Hunter, & Group of the year.

Any branch member may enter. ALL YOU REQUIRE IS TO HAVE AN ACCURATE RIFLE TO COMPETE. The winner of each class is decided by obtaining the average of the three best nominated groups in each class and these to be shot on separate Benchrest days. A member may enter a nominated group in one or all of the classes at any Benchrest load development day.

Entries must be shot during normal competition periods at the range

We only had two branch members who shot regularly throughout the year for most of these trophys. It would be good to have a few more shooters having a go.

There are nominated Benchrest days starting on 277h June 2020 and finishing in May 2021 Should you be interested please contact Arthur on 8461946.

Note: We have allocated a Sat. morning session for the club benchrest shoot including load testing for the benchrest competitors. If you intend to take on this offer we expect you to shoot a card on the benchrest days regardless of the weather conditions.

As times have changed a review of the criteria required to shoot for the Auckland Branch Benchrest trophys has been undertaken with the aim to get more shooters involved to compete for the six trophys in this competition.

The trophys that are available are, Beggs Wiseman Cup for Heayv Varmit class, Beggs Wiseman Cup for Light Varmit class, Tisdall Cup, Norcross Cup, Sportco Cup, & the Sako group of the year trophy.

THE REVISED CRITERIA IS OUTLINED BELOW.

BEGGS WISEMAN CUP. Heavy Varmit Benchrest rifle with scope as per NZDA rules.Best group shot over three days with one nominated group per day.BEGGS WISEMAN CUP.Light Varmit Benchrest rifle with scope as per NZDA rules. Best group shot over three days with one nominated group per day.Tisdall Cup.Hunter /Sporter type rifle. Lightweight barrel. Scope power 9x maximum. Best group shot over three days with one nominated group per day.NORCROSS CUP.Varmit/Hunter/Sporter type rifle. Any barrel, any scope. (Light or heavy bench rest rifles not eligable.) Best group shot over three days with one nominated group per day.SPORTCO CUP.Shot on the day by any centre fire rifle with any scope & trigger. ( Light or heavy benchrest rifles not eligable.) Shall be shot at a time nominated by the RO on the benchrest day. All shooters to compete. Best group shot on any one day throughout the year wins.SAKO GROUP OF THE YEAR.This is a ten shot group with any rimfire rifle and scope.Best group shot on any nominated rimfire benchrest shoot throughout the year wins.Apart from the Sako trophy all the other groups are five shot.

Part of our shooting trophy competition are the bench rest shoots. None of these trophies were competed for over the last twelve months. I hope to see a better response this coming year. The revised rules are set as described below.

Before opening the range there is quite a bit of maintaince work that is required to be done.

To carry out the work requires more than ten members per session to do it with minimal social distancing etc. ie a relaxation of the current level 2 rules.

To do the work I want to do it over a full weekend.Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th June if you can help please

contact range@deerstalkers.co.nz or call Arthur on 098461946 EVENINGS ONLY

The following work is long overdue & needs to be carried out.1. Fix up the target frames, fitting new backers,.2. Trim some of the vegetation ie gorse & the Toi Toi 3. Install the duckboard in front of the butts.4. Level the 100m mound.5. Install the electrical cable to one of the shotgun throwers6. Clean up the drains.Gate entry time 9.00am. & 1.00 pmWe will require some wheel barrows, rakes, shovels, spades,

grubbers & loppers. etc.

The North Auckland NZDA committee has decided to open their range & is available for our members to use while our range is closed. They have set certain protocols in place which you must adhear to if you want to use it.

The following dates for sighting in are as follows.7th, 14th, 21st, 28th June & 5th July.Your range fee is $10. I have been advised that the afternoon

would be best to come to their range.

NZDA NATIONAL GUIDELINES FOR SHOOTING RANGE USE UNDER LEVEL 2

It is anticipated that there will be heavy demand for ranges so hunters can zero their rifles in before looking for a deer and that demand is likely to create pressure for all NZDA branches with range facilities.

The main issue for branches is to manage that demand and range use while ensuring Level 2 rules are observed.

Failure to do this could harm the NZDA’s reputation and place branches at risk for breaching the rules and their duty of care for their members.

Branches with ranges on local government or leased land could also risk continued use of that land for not complying with the rules, especially if they put other land users at risk.

The NZDA recommends the following rules as the minimum for range use.

• Numbers using the range must be limited to no more than ten people at a time . THIS WOULD INCLUDE THE RANGE OFFICERS.

• Ranges are for NZDA member use only.• It is compulsory that there is a contact register set up to

record each person who uses the range. This register must record date, time, names, phone numbers and addresses. If people refuse to comply, they don’t use the range. Get people to use their own pens or clean pens after each person touches them.

• The register must be kept for four weeks and be readily accessible so it can be given to the Ministry of Health if required.

• There must be a system for cleaning benches, seats and static target frames after each person uses them and before the next one can take their place.

• For ranges with locks on access gates, there must be a system for cleaning those locks after each person touches them.

• Range users must keep the required one metre distance apart from others. This may mean only second bench can be used on a range.

• If people are feeling unwell, they must not use the range.• Make the list of rules available to all members. Email them,

post them on your website and display them at the range.To help compliance and protect the NZDA, branches and

members, it is recommended that each branch institute the following systems.

• If you can’t comply, don’t open.• Members only can use NZDA ranges. Branches which allow

non-member use in normal times should stop this practice during the Covid crisis.

• Pre-print contact tracing forms for people to fill in and have them readily available. Completing these forms is non-negotiable.

• Tell people to bring their own cleaning gear and pens to fill in the contact sheets.

• Range officers must be on duty to monitor the range, control shooter numbers and ensure the contact register is filled in. This is a big demand on the club members performing this duty, so limiting range hours is also an option to ease the burden on the few who always volunteer.

• Institute a booking system. This will help control numbers. Because the range is limited to ten people at a time, only one or two persons should be covered by a single booking. Remember however that ten is the total of all people using the range at any one time, not the number of bookings for that time slot!

• If a person hasn’t booked, they can’t use the range.• Limit the time a person can use a range in order to be fair

to everyone. People should not expect to settle in for the day to chronograph all those handloads they have loaded up during lockdown and sight in their six rifles.

• Inform each and every member of the rules.• Ask for members to help with the job of managing range use

to ensure the workload is spread as widely as possible.PLEASE NOTE: As all our Range Officers are volunteers they

can’t be forced to do range duties under the present conditions if they are not happy to do so. It is safer for all to wait until the numbers that want to use the range can be increased with the minimum fuss.

WORKING BEEAT THE RANGE SAT 6TH & SUN 7THHELP & GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN A $100 SERIOUS SHOOTERS VOUCHER

37

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36

RANGE CALENDAR

IMPORTANT MSSA RIFLES ARE BANNED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.• MAKE SURE YOU READ THE PROGRAMME PROPERLY • GATE ENTRY TIMES ARE EARLIER THAN THE RANGE STARTING TIMES

RANGE CONTACT: ARTHUR PH. 846 1946. E-MAIL : RANGE@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

GATE ENTRY TIMES: IN 8.45AM - 9.00AM IN/OUT 12.45PM - 1.00PM

JUNE 2020DAY SESSION GATE ENTRY EVENT RANGE EXIT

Sat 6 AM 9:00 WORKING BEE

Sat 6 PM 1:00 WORKING BEE

Sun 7 AM 9:00 WORKING BEE

Sun 7 PM 1:00 WORKING BEE

Sat 13 AM 8:45 - 9:00 200m Centrefire Silhouette shoot. 200m

Sun 14 AM 09:00 MEMBERS ONLY.

Sun 14 PM 12:45- 1:00 MEMBERS ONLY.

Sat 20 AM 09:00 OMNI Pistol club shoot. 25m

Sat 20 PM 12:00 OMNI Pistol club shoot. 25m

Sun 21 AM 8:45 - 9:00 MEMBERS ONLY. 100m, 25m 12:45

Sun 21 AM 8:45 - 9:00 MEMBERS ONLY. 100m, 25m 12:45

Sat 27 AM 8:45 - 9:00 Benchrest & load development & practice shoot. NZDA Auck. MEMBERS ONLY. 100m , 25m 12:45

Sat 27 PM 12:45 - 1:00 200m Practice. NZDA Auck. MEMBERS ONLY. 04:30

Sun 28 AM 8:45 - 9:00 MEMBERS ONLY. 100m, 25m 12:45

Sun 28 PM 12:45 - 1:00 MEMBERS ONLY. 100m, 25m 04:30

38 39

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE THOSE OF THE MEMBERS & INDIVIDUALS, NOT THE CLUB OR NZDA ORGANISATION AS A WHOLE.

president@deerstalkers.co.nz secretary@deerstalkers.co.nz treasurer@deerstalkers.co.nz committee@deerstalkers.co.nz range@deerstalkers.co.nz party-hunts@deerstalkers.co.nz bt@deerstalkers.co.nz

ADDRESS7 Target Street, PO Box 44301, Point Chevalier, Auckland 1246 MEETINGSBranch meetings are held at our Clubrooms, 7 Target Street, Point Chevalier on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm (except January).

BERETTA berettanewzealand.comBROWNING browningammo.comBURRIS OPTICS burrisoptics.comCJS CONSTRUCTION cjsconstruction.co.nzGOURMET & GAME MEAT PROCESSORS gourmetandgamemeatprocessors@gmail.comGO NATIVE gonativeworld.comHORNADY hornady.com/ammunitionHOUSE OF KNIVES worldofcutlery.netHAMILLS TAUPO hamillstaupo.co.nzJUSTIN JONES CREATIVE justinjones.co.nzKILWELL SPORTS kilwell.co.nzKUMEU MEAT PROCESSORS meat.net.nzLATITUDE COMMODITIES LTD latcom.co.nzNZ GUNS & HUNTING MAGAZINE nzgunsandhunting.co.nzREPCO HENDERSON repco.co.nzRELOADERS SUPPLIES reloaders.co.nzSAKO sako.fiSERIOUS SHOOTERS seriousshooters.co.nzSTEINER OPTICS steiner-optics.comSTEVE’S WHOLESALE steveswholesalenz.comSWAZI swazi.co.nzROD & RIFLE MAGAZINE rodandrifle.co.nzTASMAN TAXIDERMY tasmantaxidermy.co.nzTHE HUNTERS CLUB facebook.com/huntersclubnzTHORLOS thorlos.co.nzTIKKA tikka.fiWOODHILL FALLOW DEER COUNCIL fallowdeer.co.nz

We’ve all got a good yarn about the one that got away,

the trip from hell or our greatest hunt ever!

Share them with the club!

We’d love to hear your stories, send them in with pics

to bt@deerstalkers.co.nz & go in the draw to WIN a

SERIOUS SHOOTERS VOUCHER to gear up

for your next adventure!

NZDA AUCKLAND BRANCH SPONSORS

SIMPLY SHARE... FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A VOUCHER

THANKS TO SERIOUS SHOOTERS NZDA AUCKLAND

BRANCH CONTACTS

NZDA AUCKLAND BRANCH WEBSITE deerstalkers.co.nzNZDA AKL BRANCH EMAIL auckland@deerstalkers.co.nz

IF YOU HAVE ANY CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE BUSH TELEGRAPH PLEASE SEND THEM TO BT@DEERSTALKERS.CO.NZ

facebook.com/deerstalkers/

WIN A$40VOUCHER

The Game Animal Council, Mountain Safety Council and New Zealand Deerstalkers Association are urging hunters to ‘play it safe’ when hunting resumes on public conservation land under COVID-19 Alert Level 2.

“It’s really exciting to be able to go hunting again, especially for the majority of hunters that hunt on public land, however it is super-important that we do so as safely as possible,” says Game Animal Council General Manager Tim Gale.

“Because hunters have been cooped up for so long it is likely that there will be an initial rush into the hills. This makes being aware of where others may be, positively identifying your target, storing firearms responsibly at huts and general gun safety measures absolutely critical.”

“The fact is the vast majority of hunting accidents aren’t firearms-related so don’t disregard the risk of falls and slips, take river crossings extremely seriously and generally play it safe by hunting within your capabilities especially as we come into winter.”

Mountain Safety Council Chief Executive Mike Daisley emphasises the importance of good trip planning.

“Weather can be extremely changeable at this time of year; expect it to be cold and the days to be short. It is important that hunters study the weather forecast before they go and remain flexible with their dates and plans to avoid being caught out in bad weather,” says Daisley.

“This is not the time for the old ‘she’ll be right’ attitude. Being exposed to a winter storm can be deadly.”

FROM NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

“Make sure to leave detailed intentions with a family member or friend. Include where you are going and when you expect to get out, and as we must maintain vigilance around COVID-19, it is a good idea to carry hand sanitiser, maintain good hygiene practices and keep a record of who you come into contact with in case contact tracing is needed.”

New Zealand Deerstalkers Association President Trevor Chappell reiterates the need to be extra vigilant during what could be a busy time.

“Recreational hunters showed admirable patience to stay home during the peak of the roar and are now eager to get out there and enjoy their hunting again,” says Chappell. “We know that this could mean an increase of hunting parties in the hills so it is vital that we all take the necessary precautions to keep ourselves, those we are hunting with and other users of the conservation estate safe.”

More information and safety tips, including how to prepare and plan for your hunt are available at https://www.mountainsafety.org.nz/activities/hunting/.

Contact:Trevor ChappellPhone: 021-557-820 Nat.pres@deerstalkers.org.nz

Tim GalePhone: 021-688-531 Tim.gale@nzgac.org.nz

Mike DaisleyPhone: 027-443-7557 Mike.daisley@mountainsafety.org.nz

NZ Deerstalkers Association, Game Animal Council, Mountain Safety Council, Media Statement Safety the priority for hunters under level 2

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