Licences and permits
Introduction
Some activities on public conservation land and waters require a licence, permit or permission. Make sure you know and abide by the rules of the area you’re visiting.To undertake certain activities on land administered by DOC, a licence, permit or concession is required. Activities include hunting, fishing and commercial activities.
Some areas of conservation land which are particularly sensitive require special permits to visit them, for example some offshore islands.
Hunting
Permits and licences are required to go hunting. If you're hunting in an 'open hunting area', you can apply for a permit online.
Permits or licenses are required for hunting game birds, such as ducks, geese and pheasants.
Game bird permits and licences
Fishing
DOC manages trout fishing in Lake Taupō. A special fishing licence is required to fish the waters of the Taupō Fishing District.
Fish & Game New Zealand, have responsibilities for sports fish (trout and salmon) and game birds. They can provide useful information about hunting and angling regulations, access and codes of conduct.
Whitebaiting
DOC manages whitebait fishing nationally,
Commercial activities
If you want to run a commercial activity in an area managed by DOC you need to apply for a permission.