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Safety First as Roar Hunting Season Kicks Off

24th March 2026|3 min 
Media Release 

As the Roar gets underway, NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is reminding hunters to focus on safety and ‘Have a hmmm’ for an injury-free season.

Thousands of hunters are expected to take part in the Roar during the deer rutting season, which typically starts in early March and runs through April. 

MSC research, using ACC injury claim data, shows severe hunting injuries double during the Roar, with an average recovery time of 76 days. 

“Many hunters have trained hard for the Roar,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley. “We’re asking them to remain vigilant throughout the season so they make it home at the end of the day.”

The reminder comes as part of MSC’s #ROARfit campaign, which encourages hunters to plan thoroughly before heading into the hills.

MSC has six practical safety tips to help hunters stay safe during the Roar.

  • Discuss your plan. Before you head off, make sure everyone in the hunting party knows the plan and share it with an emergency contact.
  • Watch the weather.  Check the forecast and any weather warnings, and keep an eye on the conditions on the hunt. 
  • Pack the essentials.  Always take a rain jacket, warm layers, a warm hat and gloves, emergency shelter, first aid kit and a distress beacon or other reliable emergency communication device.
  • Know your limits.  If you're feeling fatigued, either physically or mentally, take a break, reassess your situation and check in with your group. Your top priority is always getting everyone home safe.
  • Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink and rest regularly, stick with your group, and make key decisions together.

‘Have a Hmmm ’ for a Safe Roar

MSC has partnered with the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC)to encourage hunters to‘Have a hmmm’ this Roar to help prevent injuries from slips, trips and falls when in the hills. 

Have a hmmm encourages hunters to think things through carefully and consider the what-ifs of their actions, 
– says Mike. 

ACC Injury Prevention Programme Leader James Whitaker says it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the hunt and push your limits. 

“Remember to ‘have a hmmm’ – slow down, check your route, watch your footing and assess terrain traps to avoid trips, slips, falls and dangerous detours,” says James. “If you injure yourself, it won’t just affect you– there are flow-on effects for your friends, family and workmates, too.”

‘Have a Hmmm’ Tips 

  • Slow down: Take your time. Pacing yourself not only improves your safety but may also give you more opportunity to spot game.
  • Pay close attention to your route: Keep track of your location. This could be crucial if you need to retrace your steps.
  • Watch your footing: Be deliberate with every step to prevent slips, trips and falls. You’ll also be quieter, so less likely to spook game.
  • Stay alert for terrain traps, like bluffs. Assess the landscape before committing to a route to avoid a last-minute detour. If you find yourself in a risky spot, pause and consider the safest way out, even if that means backtracking.

Find out more

PHOTO CREDIT | Daniel Lastovicka

Roar Hunting