Seeking advice on rabbit and possum hunting Locations

Hello fellow hunters,

I started hunting about a year ago and have got a few goats in DOC hunting areas. I'm now quite keen to shoot some rabbits and possums. As I'm not acquainted with any farm owners, I'm in search of accessible spots within DOC hunting areas that are known for rabbit and possum populations.

If anyone has insights or tips on good locations for a responsible hunter to pursue these species, your advice would be greatly appreciated. Also, if there are any recommendations for permits or regulations specific to these animals, that information would be incredibly helpful as well.

Thank you in advance for your guidance!

You'll have a problem I think. .22LRs and air rifles are prohibited on DOC land so you'll have to shoot the beasties with a centrefire. That's a terrible idea if the possum is in a tree. The bullet could go for miles if you missed, and the rabbits would explode.



Identify your target beyond all doubt because you never miss (right?) and I'll be missed.

You need a Small Game Hunting Permit to be able to hunt these animals on DOC administered land, assuming of course you'd like to use a rimfire, shotgun or small calibre rifle. DOC are not forthcoming in issuing these permits.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-re...unting%20party.

anywhere south of the straight will be good. go further and then you hit wallaby country, the cockies down there will fall over themselves inviting you round

Pretty hard without knowing a farmer. You could try apply for a rimfire permit on doc land and hunt rabbits in the late afternoon while it is still light. Hunting at night is prohibited on doc land so no good for hunting possums. Pretty much can only hunt possums on private land as you need to be hunting at night.

Others have noted the small game permit issue on DOC land. Many balk at paying for pest control but if you don't mind, you can try outdoorhq.com for property access -- often around $10-20 a day for rabbits and other small game. Not sure if you've joined your local NZDA but that can also be a fruitful avenue. When it comes to the pesties knowing people is key and if you're responsible they'll usually have you back.

A big thank you to each of you for taking the time to share your knowledge and insights with me.

I would greatly appreciate any tips on how to approach and get to know private landowners in the North Island particularly around Wellington where I'm based, any networking, online forum, or facebook groups.