Once I know where I’m heading and what I’m hunting, a general rule of thumb I use is to follow the sun. By that I mean focus your efforts on faces with the most sun activity. Not only are they easier to navigate in winter due to less ice and snow, but animals tend to make the most of the sun when it’s out. So not only is it generally more safe and comfortable, you’ll possibly increase your chances of sighting and taking an animal. While not all animals tend to hug the warm sides, it’s a good place to start.

Having an effective winter layering system is essential for staying comfortable when hunting. If you can’t stay cool while climbing and warm while glassing you’re going to be in for a rough ride. My go-to is a merino base layer for a decent climb before daybreak. This will prevent you from overheating. It will also keep you warm when you stop to glass by minimising the amount of sweat cooling on your skin. I run the Bushbuck Combat Merino base layers and I’m well impressed. Once I reach a spot to glass or stop for a snack, I’ll layer up quickly with:

• A mid-layer fleece for insulation

• A puffer jacket if it’s really cold 

• A waterproof jacket if it’s wet 

• A warm hat and gloves

You’ll be surprised at how little gear you actually need to stay warm in winter conditions, as long as you’ve got good quality clothing and you’re layering smartly. 

The trick is having your gear packed smart so you can layer up fast. Trapping body heat right away keeps you comfortable and alert.

Read more: How to Layer Clothes for the Outdoors

Hunting in winter means you’re more likely to encounter snow and ice. I genuinely try to avoid it at all costs. It’s cold, wet, and can be a major hazard. But for the times it can’t be avoided entirely, I make sure I’m prepared. I carry an ice axe and a pair of pullover crampones known as “stickies”. These are for those just-in-case situations. They’re also great for frozen tussock faces, mild icy slopes, and generally navigating niggly places. I use the ice axe for cutting steps on icy slips and for self-arrest in the event I slip. If you’re not trained in how to use an ice axe and crampons—and how to navigate ice in the backcountry—then just avoid it. It’s not worth the risk. If you’re equipped with all the skills and gear, you still need to be extra careful when hunting in winter as small mistakes can be extra costly.

I have to admit to not being the most patient hunter at times. I get itchy feet and want to walk, believing “the more country we walk, the more animals we’ll see”. And while that mentality has paid off for me in the past, there really is no substitute for putting in time behind the glass.

Glassing is probably one of the main aspects of hunting, especially in high populated hunting areas. Looking back at my father and his hunting companions, I realised that patience really does pay off. They saved themselves a heap of energy and effort and probably have more meat and trophies to show for it. So long story short, I highly recommend spending as much time glassing as possible. Because we all know you can’t see everything on a face in one morning. Lastly, I recommend taking a little foam pad for sitting on. This makes glassing a lot nicer for longer periods, especially during winter. This is especially helpful for anyone like me who gets restless after glassing for 15 minutes.

Footwear is just as important as clothing, especially in winter. Make sure you’ve got a good pair of boots that have decent water repellency for trudging through wet grass and snow. Also, make sure your boots are worn in, otherwise you’re going to go through hell on a multi-day hunt. The way I wear-in my boots is by getting them wet and going for a few walks around the block or even up a hill so they mould to the shape of my feet. Lathering them up in a bit of wax can also help to soften the leather and make them more comfortable.Choosing the right pair of hiking boots is a never-ending story for hunters. I personally run a Scarpa boot because it’s a narrow fit and seems to wear well. But just make sure to get something that works for you.

When you’re hunting in winter, the number one thing to avoid is wet boots. If that happens, it’s basically game over. You’ll be cold and miserable, no two ways about it. I do everything I can to avoid wet boots, but as a back-up I always take a pair of the Bushbuck Waterproof Merino Socks. Even if my boots get wet in the dew or snow, these socks make them bearable to wear. It’s also a good idea to re-do the waterproof coating on your boots at the start of the season. One other thing, make sure you take a spare pair of laces with you. I’ve learned this tip the hard way and always carry a spare pair or two in my pack.

Hunting's an All-Season Sport

Alright, those are 5 tips for winter hunting in New Zealand, based on my insights and experiences over the past few years. Everyone will have their own takes, but these tips have kept me in good stead over a fair few winters so far. If you’re well prepared, there’s no reason why hunting has to take a back seat over the cooler months. It’s a unique experience and I highly recommend making the most of it.