Each May, as dawn breaks across New Zealand’s lakes and
wetlands, hunters gather for the opening of duck season. It's a
ritual that has been part of South Island life for generations. Families and friends meet in rustic maimais, sharing strong coffee, tall tales,
and the anticipation of birds on the wing.
Seasonal pursuits
The duck hunting season runs from early May through late July, offering the chance to pursue mallard, gray, shoveler, and paradise ducks, alongside black swans and Canada geese. Each species brings its own challenge, and each hunt its own rhythm, from the frenetic pace of ducks skimming low over the water to the drama of geese descending in formation.
Sporting
heritage
The Wānaka region has long been regarded as one of New Zealand’s premier wing shooting destinations. Its pristine lakes, open fields, and alpine backdrops create not just prime waterfowl habitat but an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country. Here, wing shooting is both a sporting pursuit and a cultural celebration, marked by camaraderie, resilience, and respect for the land.
The perfect complement
For Venator guests, wing shooting offers the ideal complement to a red stag or elk hunt. It is another way to immerse yourself in the South Island’s diverse landscapes, testing your skills in the time-honored tradition of duck shooting by day, before returning to the lodge for evenings of refined comfort, shared stories, and exceptional hospitality.
Wing shooting gallery
5-star luxury hunting lodges
Our lodges set the standard for comfort, character, and thoughtful detail. Designed with the modern sportsman in mind, every property features purpose-built gun and gear rooms to streamline logistics and maximize convenience before and after the hunt.
They’re the perfect place to unwind and celebrate a successful hunt.
A symphony
of flavours
At Venator, we celebrate the incomparable quality of New Zealand’s ingredients by artfully blending the finest produce with distinctive tastes and the fruits of the hunt. Our menus are carefully curated by our in-house chefs, ensuring every meal is transformed into a delectable culinary adventure.
Tailored to perfection
Every aspect of your journey is curated with precision, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience without a care. From detailed packing guides to curated gun libraries and travel support, we offer an extensive range of pre-trip resources to ensure our clients arrive prepared and confident. Every detail is designed to make your experience smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable.
“At Venator, we know the strength of our brand lies not only in the trophies we deliver, but also in the trusted partnerships we maintain. From the world’s finest gunmakers to leading hunting associations, these brands reflect our commitment to quality and enable us to deliver exceptional experiences for our clients.”
Book now for the
hunt of a lifetime
