From the Huntingreport Homepage

PRESS RELEASE

NEW ZEALAND PROFESSIONAL HUNTING GUIDES ASSOCIATION INC.

19 OCTOBER 2008

The New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association (NZPHGA) convened a meeting in Christchurch on 4th October 2008. Discussion took place regarding helicopter assisted hunting (search, spot and drop activities).

A representative from the Department of Conservation addressed the meeting, as did a senior manager from the Civil Aviation Department (equivalent to the U.S.A.'s FAA)

Both representatives reported there is no law stating that it is illegal to offer hunting clients 'helicopter assisted hunts' but noted the level of safety that a client enjoys on an international flight surpasses that which is on offer for such an excursion.

A motion was carried stating:

" In view of the personal nature of the ethics and morals involved, in any hunt, that the conditions under which any hunt is conducted must be fully discussed (with client) and clarified by the lead outfitter prior to
(a) Booking hunt
(b) Before embarking on hunt."


Further to this motion the relevant passages in the NZPHGA's
"Helicopter Operations Manual" under the Safety Management Systems heading on Page 4 States:

"General Operating Procedures
No person shall shoot from an aircraft during a safari operation.
The only exception is where an animal is wounded and a second kill shot is unable to be completed from the ground. In this circumstance this shot will only be taken by the guide and only if the guide has completed training in airborne shooting."


It also goes on to say that "only persons necessary for airborne shooting operations are to be in the aircraft".

Also note that the Safari Club Trophy Record Book Measurers Manual Edition XII under lawful and ethical hunting states on page 12, section 35: "Animals shot or driven by helicopter or other aircraft will not be accepted for the Record Book".

All NZPHGA members have been issued with this Safety Manual (Helicopter Operations Manual) as recommended industry best practice.

Mike Hodder
President
New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association Inc.


Seloushunter