President's Report
As we approach the end of another remarkable club year, it's time to reflect on our achievements and the progress we've made together as a community. Your support and enthusiasm have played a vital role in our success, and we are excited to share some highlights from the past year.
1. Fastest-Growing Club in the Country!
We are thrilled to announce that North Auckland NZDA has been recognised as the fastest-growing club in the country! This incredible achievement is a testament to our dedicated membership who have passionately promoted our club and welcomed new members into our community. Together, we are setting the standard for excellence in the NZDA network.
2. Thriving Shooting Days
Our shooting days have seen continued large attendance, reflecting our members' commitment to honing their skills and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with our shared passion. The energy on the ranges has been infectious, and it’s heartening to see both seasoned shooters and newcomers participating in these events, fostering a supportive environment for all.
3. New 50-Meter Range Build
We are excited to report significant progress on the preparation and construction of our new 50-meter range. This addition will enhance our facilities, allowing for more varied shooting experiences and accommodating a wider range of training courses. We can't wait for you to experience this new space.
4. Ongoing NZ Hunts Courses
Our commitment to education and skill development continues with the ongoing NZ Hunts courses. These courses have proven to be immensely popular, equipping participants with essential knowledge and skills for safe and responsible hunting. Thank you to all the instructors and volunteers who have made these courses a success.
5. Well-Attended Party Hunts
This year, our party hunts have seen fantastic participation, bringing together members for enjoyable and productive outings. These events strengthen our community bonds while providing a great opportunity to share knowledge and experiences in the field.
6. Engaging Membership Nights
Our regular membership nights have been very well attended, providing a platform for members to connect, share ideas, and stay informed about club activities. We are grateful for the enthusiastic participation and look forward to more engaging evenings in the future.
7. Ongoing Grounds and Clubhouse Upgrades
Finally, we’ve been hard at work on the ongoing upkeep of our grounds and clubhouse. These improvements not only enhance our facilities but also create a welcoming environment for all members. Thank you to everyone who has contributed time and resources to make our club a better place.
As we celebrate these achievements, we look forward to an exciting year ahead filled with more opportunities for growth, learning, and camaraderie. Thank you for being an integral part of the North Auckland NDA community. Together, we will continue to thrive and make our club a premier destination for all shooting and hunting
Regards,
Ivan Ramsey
Notice of Branch Centralisation & Invoice Changes
North Auckland Branch Members,
We hope you're all doing well and making the most of the great outdoors.
We have an important update regarding your membership fees. The North Auckland Branch has now centralised its billing and is part of the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association National Office billing system.
What This Means for You:
Your membership invoice will be sent by the National Office on 1 March 2025.
Please note that the payment details have changed. Your fees will now be paid directly to the National Office, not the North Auckland Branch.
The correct account details will be clearly listed on your invoice.
For your convenience, below you will find an example of the invoice email you will receive.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Lesley McLaren
Email: lesley.mclaren@nads.org.nz.
50m Training Range Repair Update
Words by: Bob McMillan
In 2003 the old moving target range (also known as the Running Boar) was closed by NZ Police due to non-compliance with both structure and use. Since then various plans have been floated to repair and reinstate this range, but the cost has been out of reach, until now.
Now we have the funds to repair the range, and the cost is manageable by limiting its use to .22LR rim fire, and omitting the firing point shed and amenities in stage 1. The bullet catcher and backstop for a .22 range is substantially cheaper to build (and maintain) than for centre fire ranges.
Work started mid-November, with the earthworks now complete. A series of work parties will be called for members to assist with the walls, both for the backstop and the two side walls. A number of members have already put their names forwarded to be called upon as needed. If you have a particular skill in building, or just generally want to help on occasion, call Bob on 022 543 2295.
Certification is planned for late April and the range should be in use May 2025. There will be 10 lanes, open all day, 21 days a year, so we will need 4 – 5 more range officers. An RO course will be announced for May 2025.
There have already been some questions about the use of this new range. Here is a sample and some answers:
Q. Can I use my 17HMR?
A. No, the range is limited to rifles firing .22 long rifle (LR) standard velocity ammunition.
Q. What is standard velocity ammunition?
A. Ammunition that does not exceed 1100 fps.
Q. Will we be able to shoot standing up?
A. Yes, the firing platform is designed for 4-position shooting. When shooting standing, you will be required to adjust a vertical shutter to prevent you seeing over the bullet catcher.
Q. Will there be benches?
A. Yes, there will be 10 portable benches and stools available.
Q. Can I use an air rifle?
A.. Yes, provided it is not larger than .22 cal and the pellet does not exceed 1100fps.
Check Your Gear Before the Roar
Going hunting for the roar this year, before you go check all your gear is in good working order.
We constantly check the rifle is oiled, cleaned, hitting targets, and permits are good, but do you check your first aid kit, and what should be in said kit..
Too often, we hear about people having bad injuries while out hunting, tramping or whatever their outdoor adventure is; having a first aid kit based on your adventure, your skill set and the size you want to carry is essential and often a requirement for the workplace.
We also often carry things cause as humans are like sheep, we have always been told to carry XYZ, but should we, do we? Well, likely you do for the most part, and often it's unnecessary.
A thermal blanket is a classic; why do you carry one? Do we know that we can't reverse moderate hypothermia in the field? Yes, we can slow the end result of death down, but not with a silver blanket alone that NASA designed for a different purpose, it takes some knowledge of how we are losing heat and how to rewarm at the right pace and in the right places, well gone are the days of jumping into the sleeping bag with your dying mate to reheat them, this is well proven not to work ( and I have had the unfortunate opportunity to testing that old method and seeing it not work)
Tourniquet, Chest seal, and hemostatics (quick clot or celox) are all fantastic items for ballistic or stab wounds, but you need to carry them on your person and be ready to be used and know how to use them.
Most other first aid items can be stashed in the bottom of your backpack as they aren’t or shouldn’t be life-saving so not urgent to get to.
If you would like some items or information, please feel free to contact us below, and remember NZDA members get a discount on our website with code “nzda“
Kane Turner 022 171 5049 kane@ktservices.nz KT Services
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