Silverhorn
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 Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.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, Goats
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.
Road access can close during winter as the road is prone to slips. Queenstown Lakes District Council manage the road, contact: +64 3 441 0499.
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
About this hunting block
A restricted hunting block in the Queenstown area.
General information
This restricted hunting area is bookable online.
The terrain is rugged shady creeks, steep spurs, and peaks rising to over 1700 m. The vegetation is mixed with snow tussock above 900 m, and beech/tawhai forest and sub-alpine shrubland in the gullies.
No shooting is allowed on the terraces around the Skippers old school and homestead (prohibited area).
Hunters need to be aware of the block boundaries.
Terrain
Open tussock, forested gullies, steep.
Access
The main access is from Queenstown. Take Skippers Rd (turn off from Coronet Peak Skifield Rd) and continue on the narrow winding 13 km road to Skippers Bridge. From here tracks lead through the historic Skippers terraces, although no shooting is allowed until well clear of this prohibited area.
Maps
NZ Topo50 series: CB11
Huts
There are no huts in this block.
Dogs
Dogs must remain in vehicle until reaching the public conservation land.
Dogs are allowed in this block with a hunting permit.
Know before you go
During high winds small-sized branches are falling out of dead trees within the densely forested pine stands in Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve. Avoid areas of dead trees during high winds.
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.
Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block