Brent Growcott, who resides in North Otago, but hunts in South Canterbury, said he was looking forward to a full season. “Covid-19 meant everything had to be put out by a few weeks last year, which was a bit frustrating,” Growcott said. “However, we were also lucky to get the hauls we got over last season, and we made the most of it.” Growcott, who has been a duck hunter for more than 30 years, said he enjoys the social aspect. “It’s about catching up with friends and putting some food on the table. “A good hunter needs to be ethical and respect the resource.”
Seeing the family tradition of duck shooting passed on to the next generation is always a thrill for Richard Hill.
Over many years, the Oamaru Sports and Outdoors co-owner has seen generations of North Otago families prepare for the duck-shooting season. Children who once came in to the store with their fathers were now coming in with their own children.
“It’s just awesome – it makes me feel old, though,” Hill said.
It was also encouraging to see more young women take up duck-shooting.
“We’re starting to see a lot of teenage girls getting into the sport now, which is absolutely fantastic.”