Bendigo Conservation Area

You can hunt goats and pigs in the Bendigo Conservation Area hunting block on the upper western slopes of the Dunstan Mountains to the southwest of Mt Moka.

Animals present are goats and pigs.

This 1980 ha block lies on the upper western slopes of the Dunstan Mountains to the southwest of Mt Moka. This is an area of expansive high country tussock interspersed with boggy creeks and rocky outcrops.

Access is off Thomson Gorge Road, accessed either from State Highway 8 at Lindis Crossing (23 km north of Cromwell), or from Matakanui near State Highway 85 at Omakau. The road through to the southern tip of the block is closed. This is because of damage on the 4WD road between Thomson Gorge Road turnoff and Mt Moka, motorised vehicles are currently unable to drive into the conservation area.

Bike and foot access is still possible.

No other access routes are available for vehicles.

NZTopo50 series: CB13, CC13

Dogs

Dogs are allowed in this block with a hunting permit. If accessing the block over private land, you must have landholder permission to take your dog.

Avalanches usually occur from May to November in Wakatipu, Wānaka and Central Otago. There can also be avalanches outside this period, if there is still snow coverage.

If you are going into avalanche terrain, always:

1. Have the relevant avalanche skills and training.
2. Check the ATES rating and the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory.
3. Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.