Upper Godley
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 Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.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 - Red, Tahr
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
No dogs
About this hunting block
A 17,596 hectare hunting area in Canterbury.
Animals present are chamois, red deer, and tahr.
General information
The Upper Godley is a rugged alpine hunting block in New Zealand's Southern Alps. The land is heavily glaciated is mostly steep mountain ranges covered in scree slopes, moraine and tussock grasslands.
Access
There is 4WD access to the east side of the Godley Valley but you need to cross the Macaulay River. A route is marked past Lilybank Lodge. No vehicle access is permitted past Separation Stream.
The Godley River 4WD route has been destroyed by the river which has moved to the true left above Sibbald Island.
Vehicle travel beyond this point is at your own risk and may involve fording one or more braids of the river. It should not be attempted unless you are capable of self-recovery.
From Late August to mid-February, be aware of nesting birds and follow the Braided River Care Code. Conservation of braided river birds (PDF, 2,181K)
Maps
Topo50 series: BX16, BX17 and BW17
Dogs
No dogs are permitted in the national park.
Know before you go
The terrain is heavily glaciated and is mostly steep mountain ranges covered in scree slopes, moraine and tussock grasslands. Hunters should be experienced at alpine travel and river crossings.
The weather can change rapidly with little warning.
It is recommended that hunters sign in their trip intentions at the DOC visitor centre when entering the park. For up-to-date information on access and conditions, contact the local DOC visitor centre.
Avalanches
Avalanches can occur in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in any season. Find out about avalanche danger in Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block