Branches and members are no doubt aware that the Minister of Conservation has appointed a panel to consider and advise him on how to manage deer, chamois, tahr and pigs in a way that improves the conservation or native habitats but also recognises the importance of the four species to recreational hunters. This panel is now referred to as the GAME ANIMAL PANEL

A presentation to the panel workshop by Bill Chisholm was presented on NZDA's behalf. The discussion document Managing Numbers of deer, chamois, tahr and pigs September 2007 and an online questionnaire are also both available on www.gameanimalpanel.org.nz and will also be available on the NZDA website.

We need as many hunters as possible to complete the forms. A further option is to write your own submission based on the questionnaire available from the secretary and any other questions that you may have. If you wish to take up this option, post 6 copies of your submission to:- The Secretary, Game Animal Panel, PO Box 8134, Addington, Christchurch 8243, or by emailing it (1 copy only required) to mail@gameanimalpanel.org.nz to arrive no later than 6 November 2007.