Three firearms were seized for unlicensed gamebird hunting during opening weekend checks in Southland, as Police and Fish & Game reported generally strong compliance from shooters.

The joint operation, dubbed Operation Daffy, ran across Western Southland, Eastern Southland and Invercargill during the first weekend of May. Three teams, each pairing a Fish & Game ranger with a Police officer, visited a large number of ponds and maimai as the region’s three-month duck season got underway.

Police focused on Arms Act compliance, including breath alcohol checks, while Southland Fish & Game rangers checked gamebird licences and other Wildlife Act rules such as the use of non-toxic shot. Fish & Game seized three firearms for shooting without a gamebird hunting licence.

Senior Sergeant Peter Graham said officers found high compliance overall and positive engagement with hunters. “We commend them for their good firearms handling and safety procedures throughout the weekend, and we hope we see this continue.” Police said there were no related incidents or offences reported.

Southland Fish & Game Senior Ranger Josh Tabak said there were “smiles aplenty” despite blue skies and little wind making the birds hard to move. “A silver lining of the warm and settled weather is that it makes the day far more enjoyable for our youngest hunters, who may just be starting out, and gives them a real chance to bag a duck or two and enjoy the day with family and friends.

“We have been really encouraged by the high levels of compliance this year, and it’s great to see. This is what it’s all about – hunters enjoying the occasion and doing things the right way,” Tabak said.