Lower Caples RHA
Alerts
Boundaries are approximate and not suitable for accurate boundary definition. Check current DOC permit conditions before hunting. Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.
Chamois, Deer - Fallow, Deer - Red
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by a 'restricted area permit'. Contact the DOC office managing the hunting area.
No hunting 1 October to 31 March in Greenstone/Caples RHA.
Before lighting a fire on public conservation land, check it's alright to light. Extinguish all fires before leaving huts and campsites. How to minimise the risk of fire.
No dogs
About this hunting block
The Lower Caples block includes the most of the bush and faces on the true left of the Caples. It offers opportunities to hunt fallow deer, red deer and chamois.
Animals present are fallow deer, red deer and chamois.
General information
The Lower Caples block includes most of the bush and faces on the true left of the Caples, from the creek draining Mt Bonpland down to the confluence of the Greenstone and Caples Rivers. It also includes the area of bush on the true right, behind Mid Caples Hut.
The Lower Caples block is restricted and is only available from 1 April to 30 September. You need to get a permit specifically for this block, issued from the local DOC office by way of wo ballot draws.
Access
From the Greenstone road end take the Caples Track up-valley to Mid Caples Hut. From here you can access both parts of the block.
Landholders
The Caples Valley floor is private land, owned by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. No hunting is permitted on or within 100 metres of the river flats. Access agreements allow for walking and carrying firearms up the valley.
Hunters who are allocated a block in the ballot draw must advise the farm manager before entering the valley. Contact Routeburn Station, Stuart Percy, ph +64 27 204 3693.
Maps
NZTopo50 series: CB09, CB10
Dogs
Dogs are not permitted in this block, or in any part of the Greenstone/Caples Recreational Hunting Area (RHA).
Huts
There may be avalanche danger
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:
- Have the relevant avalanche skills and training.
- Check the ATES rating and the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory.
- Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.
Additional information
- From 1 October to 31 March the Greenstone/Caples RHA is closed to hunting.
- Commercial or guided hunting is not permitted in this block.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block