Alpine Hunting

Alpine environments are steep and exposed by their very nature. When a hunter loses their footing in this environment the consequences are typically worse than in other hunting environments. Alpine hunting fatalities are typically the result of falling which is perhaps of little surprise given the steep terrain. A clear trend emerged through our analysis - four of the five alpine hunting fatalities were alone at the time. Had these hunters been with another person at the time of their fall, or were carrying a suitable communication device, some of these fatalities could have been prevented or downgraded to a serious incident instead of a fatality.

Watch as we uncover key risks and ways to mitigate them with the NZ Hunter's Club:

Explore more videos here

Did you know?

60% of alpine hunter injuries were caused by falling.

– A Hunter's Tale, 2017

Quickly explore a section of this page

What are the risks?

A Hunter's Tale

Developed by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) 'A Hunter's Tale' represents the most comprehensive exploration of hunting participation and incidents in New Zealand. Building on the success of There and Back (2016) this publication represents the first in a series of comprehensive ‘deep dives’ and explores hunting and firearms safety through the presentation of key insights.

Read the story

Prepare for your hunt

New Zealand weather is very changeable. Even if you set out in the sunshine and there is no rain in the forecast it's not uncommon to have an isolated shower. Make sure you take rain protection and extra layers you can put on if it gets cold. Remember a lot of alpine hunting is sitting around observing the area, looking for animals as well as routes. Having the right supplies means that you're more likely to remain warm, comfortable and safe for the duration of your trip.

Wear the right fabrics. Clothing only retains what heat your body produces. Certain fabrics wick moisture away from the body and retain warmth. Avoid cotton clothing – when cotton gets wet it ceases to insulate you. Wet and cold clothing significantly contributes to hypothermia.

Good boots with a full shank – These will make walking on their edges, or plunge stepping through scree much easier.
Torch/ headtorch - the chase can often lead to a walk back in the dark
A basic survival kit with fire lighting gear, a whistle, survival blanket/bag etc.
A basic first aid kit with any personal medication you may need
A PLB – The emergency could be for you or someone else. How will you get help?
A communication device for the outdoors. Mobile phones can have limited coverage in most outdoor locations
A map of the area and a compass, and know how to use them
Clean and bright blaze gear - Wearing blaze is not an insurance policy, but contrasting with your environment is a good safety principle.
Food and water - always prepare for a potential night out or an extra-long day
Permission or a DOC permit to hunt on the land as well as a current NZ firearms licence
Binoculars and Spotting Scope – You absolutely need these to hunt in the alpine. At least one each per group.
A sturdy comfortable pack – To carry your emergency gear, extra clothes and hopefully some meat!
A pack liner for keeping your gear dry and use as an emergency shelter
Clean and sighted in firearm - a small cloth in your pocket to clean your scope, and basic cleaning gear for you at the hut and a sighted-in firearm which you are familiar with.
A basic hunting gear list, avalanche advisory and forecasts can be downloaded as part of our FREE online tool:

Begin Plan My Trip

Are you feeling up to it? You need to be in top physical condition to make sure you are able to handle your firearm, traverse the terrain, make smart decisions and make it home again. Don't go hungover, tired, in poor weather or when you are already injured.
Do you know how to cross rivers and traverse steep terrain? Chasing a target can take you to some pretty tough areas of the country. Train up, learn river safety techniques and hunt in an area you feel comfortable. Carrying firearms across rivers and tough areas need to be considered.

Pick the right hunting buddy - We encourage you to have a great time out there with your mates, but it is your right to feel safe with the people you are hunting with.
- Make sure they are licensed or are directly supervised by a licensed shooter
- They are medically and mentally up for the task - seeing, hearing, fitness etc.
- They know how to safely operate the firearm they are using
- They practice safe shooting by always following the 7 Basic Firearms Rules
- They are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- They know what to do in an emergency situation
- You all understand who is shooting and when.
How will you communicate? Explore options for outdoor communication options both for an emergency situation, as well as within your own hunting group.