The NZDA Hunter National Training Scheme (HUNTS) is designed to allow novice and partially experienced hunters to gain competence in basic hunting and bushcraft skills, to enable them to successfully complete 1 to 2-day deerstalking trips, into areas below the bush line.

These skills include, but are not limited to,​

• Behaving in an ethical and environmentally friendly manner.

• Trip preparation and planning in order to reduce potential risks.

• Selecting the correct equipment and food to carry.

• Applying sound bushcraft, navigation and river crossing methods.

• Understanding and applying rifle safety & maintenance, ballistics and marksmanship.

• Identifying and understanding the behaviour of New Zealand’s deer species.

• Applying reliable hunting and shooting techniques.

• Skinning and butchering a deer, plus preparing trophies.

• Basic first aid and survival techniques.

​The HUNTS Course is aimed at newcomers to the sport of hunting or more mature hunters who want to improve their bushcraft and hunting skills. Trainees must be at least 16 years old and preferably have a current firearms license (not essential), their own centrefire rifle (not essential), suitable clothing and equipment as well as a reasonable level of fitness.