Makarora

You can find red deer and chamois in the Makarora hunting block.

Animals present are red deer and chamois, in low to moderate numbers.

This block takes in the upper Makarora River catchment as it drains the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana from Mt Brewster to Haast Pass/Tioripātea. The landscape varies between steep gorges and bush slopes, extensive river flats and alpine snow, tussock and rock.

This block is balloted for the ROAR for the period during the months of March and April.

See Wanaka roar block system.

Access to the Makarora Valley is from Davis Flat, 15 km northwest of Makarora township on the Haast Highway (SH6). A high water track is available; indicated by a DOC sign near the road bridge on the true left of the river.

There is a designated roar landing site by Makarora Hut. Helicopter access is at designated landing sites by DOC approved aircraft concessionaires. Contact local helicopter operators for more information.

• Makarora Valley Track

• NZTopo50 series: BZ13
• Makarora hunting block map (PDF, 1664K)

Dogs are not allowed in this block as it is part of Mount Aspiring National Park.

• Makarora Hut

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely, and be prepared for if or when you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, or you cannot find safe entry and exit points or you're unsure it's safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

• See Niwa's latest river flow forecast video for a national overview and region-specific river flow forecasts.
• How to cross rivers safely

Check for current pesticide operations that may be in progress where you intend to hunt using the pesticide summary map.

The use of shotguns, shotgun-rifle combos, .22 calibre and rim-fire firearms are prohibited on public conservation land unless stated otherwise.