Hunters told to be polite

Fish and Game has made a plea to hunters to be courteous and tolerant if they encounter anti-hunting supporters during the gamebird season.

With the opening of duckshooting just under three weeks away, Fish and Game New Zealand director Bryce Johnson has warned shooters that ethical hunting is an issue that is increasingly attracting media attention.

"Animal rights groups will take every opportunity to oppose the sport and will draw public attention to activities or practices that do not meet the highest standards," he writes in a letter accompanying gamebird licences.

"Your hunting will be under increasing scrutiny in the future and I ask that you consider the possible effects of how you hunt.

"If you encounter anti-hunting groups or individuals this season, the most important thing they will take away is the sort of people the hunters they meet are, and how they were treated. Courtesy and understanding are never wasted."

Mr Johnson says the future of hunting as it is known in New Zealand is not guaranteed but that hunters can help its survival by getting the young interested in the sport.

- NZPA