About Our Club
About the NZDA
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The New Zealand Deerstalkers Association (NZDA) is the leading organisation representing recreational hunters throughout New Zealand. It was founded in 1937 by Dr. Geoffrey Orbell M.B.E., who is also known for rediscovering the takahē in the Murchison Mountains in 1948.
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About Wellington Branch
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The Wellington Branch was established on 17 August 1950 and officially incorporated on 19 February 1959. For over 70 years, we have supported hunters in the Wellington region by promoting ethical hunting, outdoor skills, and conservation.
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Supporting Hunting in Wellington and Across New Zealand
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Our mission is to encourage and advance responsible hunting in New Zealand. This includes deerstalking, bushcraft, shooting sports, and outdoor safety. We focus on providing facilities, training, and community support for hunters, while promoting the ideals of fair chase and the protection of native flora and fauna.
Whether you are new to hunting in Wellington or an experienced deerstalker, the NZDA Wellington Branch offers opportunities to develop your skills, connect with like-minded hunters, and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and respectful way.​​
Hunting
We run 'Club Hunts' to public land around the Wellington region as well as to other hunting areas in the North Island, South Island and Stewart Island. These hunts cater to various levels of interest and fitness, with access by foot, vehicle, aircraft or boat, dependent on location.
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A subsidy of participating members' transport costs is sometimes available.
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To join or propose a club hunt, contact the committee as early as possible.
Competitions
Branch and national competitions are organised for game trophies, photographs, videos, literature and target shooting (including postal shoots). Target shooters may also compete in regional events and aspire to New Zealand representative teams.
See the Competitions page for full details.
Club Backcountry Hut and Lodge
Roaring Stag Lodge - Ruamahanga Valley, Tararuas - site cleared in 1960, materials bought and carried in, and construction completed during 1961 and 1962 by the Branch.
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Cattle Ridge Hut - adopted at request of Wellington Conservancy. We fully rebuilt the hut in 2018 using Branch funding and volunteers.
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We carry out annual or bi-annual maintenance trips to each hut. Keep an eye out for notification by the committee when these trips are planned.
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We promote safe, responsible use of firearms and a respect for native flora and fauna.
