Back to Stories

Planning to Hunt the Roar 2026? It’s Time to Get #ROARfit

8th December 2025|3 min

NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is launching its#ROARfit campaign this month urging hunters to start their training now for next year’s Roar to help prevent severe injuries.

“The average recovery time for a severe hunting injury is 76 days – or more than 10 weeks – so these injuries should not be taken lightly,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley. “They’re not short-term setbacks. They can disrupt future hunting plans and impact work and family life.”

According to MSC insights developed through the analysis of Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) injury claim data, severe hunting injuries double during the Roar compared to an average month. Severe hunting injuries, which are commonly to the shoulder, knee and ankle, are often caused by slips, trips, falls and carrying heavy loads, with both mental and physical fatigue playing a major role.

“Hunters will have a much better time and more success if they start training ahead of the Roar,” says Mike. “Importantly, they’ll reduce their risk of getting injured. They’ll also be in better shape to handle the terrain and carry their gear – and hopefully a rack of antlers – out safely.”

To support this training, MSC has produced a free 12-week #ROARfit guide, designed to help hunters get into peak condition. Insights from MSC’s Adventure Voice outdoor community show that 12 weeks gives hunters the best chance of being Roar-ready. 

“Every Roar is different. Route access, terrain and physical demands vary for every hunter,” says Mike. “A good first step is to assess the hunt you’re planning and whether you have the fitness and stamina to last the distance. If you slowed down over winter or you’re recovering from an injury, it’s critical to start small and build up gradually.”

This year, MSC has produced over 10,000 #ROARfit magnets to help keep hunters motivated. They will be available free through hunting retailers and organisations, and included in selected hunting magazines.

“We’ve designed #ROARfit magnets for the fridge or gun safe so they’ll be seen often. We hope they encourage people to start training and spark conversations with their whānau and mates about the importance of getting fit,” says Mike.

Even if there are less than 12 weeks to get in shape, there’s no better time to start than today. The earlier hunters begin training, the stronger they’ll be when the stags start calling in March.

Five top tips for getting #ROARfit

  • Set achievable, realistic goals so you get some easy wins.
  • Choose activities you enjoy – walking, tramping or shorter, easier hunting trips with a lighter pack are perfect.
  • Be consistent as this helps to build fitness progressively, rather than going hard out occasionally.
  • Introduce strength work. As you get fitter, take a heavier pack or start strength workouts at the gym or home.
  • Train with a mate. Training together will keep you both accountable and make it more enjoyable. The commitment to train together will help to keep you motivated.

Find out more

PHOTO CREDIT | Cam Furlong | Roar 2022

Media Release Roar Hunting