Bow and cross bow hunting

What you need

To hunt with a bow or crossbow on public conservation land:

• you need a hunting permit, and
• your bow and crossbow need to meet minimum criteria.

What type of hunting permit you need and how to get it, is explained on the hunting blocks' webpage.

Search for a hunting block.

Bow fishing on public conservation land also requires a hunting permit.

Bow hunting minimum criteria

• Minimum drawing weight factor 15 kg (35 lb).
• Minimum diameter of two opposing blades is 22 mm (7/8 in).
• Only non-barbed hunting arrows are permissible.
• Arrows with any poison, explosive or other chemical substance on or in the head or shaft are not permitted.

Crossbow minimum criteria

• Minimum drawing weight factor 68 kg ( 150 lb).
• Minimum diameter of multi-bladed head is 22 mm (7/8 in).
• Minimum length of complete arrow is 400 mm (16 in).
• Only non-barbed hunting arrows are permissible.
• Hunting arrows must not be placed into a loaded crossbow under any circumstances unless target is located. Crossbow must have a positive mechanical safety device in working order.
• Arrows with any poison, explosive or other chemical substance on or in the head or shaft are not permitted.

Bows and crossbow rules in NZ

You don't need a licence for a bow or crossbow but there are rules around using them.

Rules for crossbow use in NZ.

Related link

New Zealand Bowhunters Society.