Foul weather just ducky for hunters

PAPERWORK: Wellington Fish and Game rangers were busy checking licences in Wairarapa on the opening weekend of duck shooting. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

The old adage it is an ill wind that blows nobody any good, looks likely to click in this weekend with Wairarapa duck shooters expecting to do a far sight better than on opening weekend.

With the passing of blue skies forecast , the duck shooters are to all intents and purposes being given a second shot at opening weekend.

The season started last Saturday but both days of the weekend saw clear skies and settled weather, a wonderful two days for everyone else but those who hunt ducks.

Wellington Fish & Game spokesman Hamish Carnachan fully expects it will be a different story for hunters throughout the lower North Island this weekend.

He said duck hunters on opening day were "generally still happy and most parties had a few ducks".

"But this weekend we have much better weather with wind and rain forecast which should move the birds around.

"We know there'll be a good turnout again on Saturday and Sunday as many hunters are planning to make the most of these conditions " you could say it's shaping up to be a second shot at opening."

Teams of rangers and police were out in force throughout the Wellington Fish & Game region last weekend and found most shooters were obeying the rules.

Despite the fine weather, it is known that in Wairarapa and in other lower North Island areas duck numbers are up on last season, which bodes well for hunters for the remainder of the season.

"After several years it's hoped that we've turned a corner and more liberal conditions might be in play next year.

"That sentiment seems to be echoed in the hunting community, so it's little wonder they're planning to make the most of good duck numbers and favourable shooting conditions this weekend." Mr Carnachan said.

Rangers will be keeping a watch over shooters throughout the six-week season.

Throughout the Wellington Fish and Game district four shotguns were seized on opening weekend from hunters either shooting without a licence or using lead shot near water.

"Not only did they have their opening weekend ruined by having their firearms confiscated, but they'll likely be handed heavy fines for breaking the law," Mr Carnachan said.

"These guys obviously thought they wouldn't get caught."