With the Roar hunting season now in full swing, the NZ Mountain Safety Council is reminding hunters how to make the most of the season and make it home safe.

The highlight of the hunting calendar, the Roar generally takes place through March and April during the deer rutting season, with thousands of hunters heading into the hills in pursuit of the stag of their dreams.

“We want hunters to have a safe and successful Roar this year. With the right care and attention, hunters can avoid an injury which could have consequences that last well beyond the hunting season,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley.

MSC insights reveal that severe hunting injuries double during the Roar hunting period, compared to an average month.

Over the past 10 years, on average, 40 per cent of the severe hunting injuries are to the knee or shoulder, which result in an average of 76 days of missed employment. 

The majority of these Roar hunting-related injuries are caused by slips, trips and falls, and nearly all are preventable. 

“It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the hunt, but we encourage hunters to slow it down and have a hmmm moment. That means taking time to assess the situation, select the best route, watch your footing and to be aware of any terrain traps like bluffs below you,” says Daisley. 

MSC encourages hunters to discuss a plan for each day with their hunting mates to make sure everyone agrees on the expectations for their trip.

Keeping an eye on the weather is also crucial, as the Roar coincides with the highly changeable Autumn season.

Regardless of the weather forecast, it’s essential for hunters to be prepared for the consequences of bad weather and to consider how that may impact rivers, and to always carry an emergency communication device, like a beacon and an emergency shelter, like a bivy bag.

Daisley says that situational awareness and quality decision-making are two key aspects of looking after yourself.

“Your decisions should be based on the facts, like what the weather is doing, if members of the group are tired and how much daylight is left.

“Take a moment to think about what other factors might be motivating you, like being worried you won’t have another chance to go hunting, and don’t let these factors override smart decisions.”

As with all trips, hunters should share their plan with a trusted emergency contact. 

MSC’s Plan My Walk app is a great tool for building a trip plan and then sharing it. As well as established tracks and routes, the app allows users to build a custom track, perfect for hunters heading off into the bush. 

MSC and ACC are collaborating to encourage hunters to have a hmmm this roar:

• Research the area and have a backup plan
• Check the weather and be prepared for it to change
• Pack a rain jacket and shelter just in case
• Tell a mate your plans before you go
• Check in with your mates regularly
• Take a map and keep track of your movements
• Watch your footing and take your time

Hunters can learn more at: https://www.mountainsafety.org.nz/learn/have-a-hmmm/have-a-hmmm-on-your-next-hunt/