About Us

Bringing together recreational hunters and shooters in the Canterbury Region.

A deer with large antlers standing in a forested area with green foliage, rocks, and tall grass.

Our History

Founded in 1937, the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association Incorporated (NZDA) represents the interests of New Zealand’s hunters as a not-for-profit and non-government organisation. The North Canterbury Branch began in July 1949 when, at a public meeting, it was decided to form a branch of the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association, based in North Canterbury. On 17th July 1958, the branch became an Incorporated Society. NZDA is made up of its members by a nationwide network of 49 Branches. With over 700 members, the North Canterbury Branch is one of the largest in the country.

A person in outdoor clothing and a wide-brimmed hat stands with mountains in the background, holding a .red stag's antlers

A person wearing camouflage clothing, and a headlamp, is smiling behind a set of large antlers at night.

What We Offer:

Monthly Branch Meetings with guest speakers

Rifle Range Access with Electronic Target System

NZDA Hunter National Training Scheme (HUNTS Course)

Club Hunts for all levels of hunting experience

Predator Control in partnership with the Department of Conservation

Hunting Lodge Accommodation at Palmer Lodge in Lewis Pass

Antler, Horn & Tusk and photographic competitions