New Commercial Game Preserve Approved for Hawke’s Bay to Boost Hunting Economy

Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager confirmed that the 286-hectare Te Konini site will begin operating commercially from the 2027 game hunting season.

Opportunities for hunting enthusiasts in New Zealand are set to expand with the establishment of a new commercial game preserve in Hawke's Bay, a move the Government says will strengthen outdoor recreation, support rural communities, and grow the regional economy.

Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager confirmed that the 286-hectare Te Konini site will begin operating commercially from the 2027 game hunting season.

The new preserve is expected to provide increased access for both New Zealand hunters and international visitors seeking high-quality game bird hunting experiences.

Government Supports Expansion of Hunting Access

Mr Meager said commercial game preserves play an important role in maintaining New Zealand's hunting culture while also contributing to local employment and tourism.

"Game bird preserves are incredibly important for New Zealand. They create more opportunities for people to hunt, support rural jobs and businesses, and help keep strong hunting traditions alive for the next generation," he said.

Commercial game preserves operate on private land, with landowners responsible for releasing pheasants and determining when their properties are available for hunting activities.

The Minister described the Te Konini development as beneficial for both the local economy and the hunting community.

"The establishment of Te Konini is a win-win situation for everyone. Operating the business commercially helps the business grow, creating more local jobs and increasing opportunities for people to participate in hunting activities," Mr Meager said.

Economic Benefits for Rural Communities

The Government says the expansion of commercial hunting operations will contribute to regional economic development through tourism, hospitality, outdoor recreation, and associated rural businesses.

According to Mr Meager, New Zealand's existing commercial game preserves already generate significant economic activity.

"New Zealand's existing commercial game preserves contribute about $7 million to our economy and employ around 40 people. This new preserve will build on those figures," he said.

The Te Konini preserve is expected to attract hunters from across New Zealand as well as overseas visitors, providing additional income opportunities for accommodation providers, retailers, guides, transport operators, and hospitality businesses in Hawke's Bay.

Promoting Outdoor Recreation and Hunting Traditions

Mr Meager said the Government is committed to increasing access to hunting opportunities and supporting outdoor recreational traditions that form part of New Zealand's rural heritage.

"We're backing more access to hunting so Kiwis and visitors from overseas can have high-quality hunting experiences in New Zealand's stunning natural environment," he said.

The Minister also expressed his personal enthusiasm for the sector and signalled ongoing support for hunting communities across the country.

"I'm looking forward to visiting one of our commercial game preserves, enjoying a pheasant shoot, and connecting with the hunters who keep this tradition strong," Mr Meager added.

Growing Interest in Hunting Tourism

The announcement comes amid growing interest in outdoor tourism and recreational hunting, both domestically and internationally. Commercial game preserves provide controlled hunting environments designed to support sustainable game bird hunting while generating economic returns for landowners and rural communities.

The Te Konini preserve will officially commence operations during the 2027 game hunting season.