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Waimate District Hunt started in 1882.
The hunt boundaries are the area between Pareora River near Timaru in the north, to the Shag River near Palmerston in the south, and inland to the Southern Alps/MacKenzie Country.
The season runs from March to July every year.
Hunting is a thrilling sport and a privilege for which we are indebted to the landowners who allow us on their properties.
The Waimate District Hunt maintains a pack of 16 couple harrier hounds. There is a hunt or ‘meet’ once or twice a week during the season, which extends from March to mid July.
Riders gather with their horses at a farmer’s property and ride across the country at the direction of the master, following the huntsman and hounds in their pursuit of a hare.
Visiting riders are welcome to join us but must obtain permission from the master before hunt day. Visitors should be introduced to the master on hunt day and should find the field secretary to pay their capping fee.
Often the country to be hunted is prepared beforehand with spars (rails) or close battens on wire fences likely to be jumped. Riders may also wish to jump their horses over unprepared wire (full wire) fences at their own judgment.
See also the tab above on "Hunting Etiquette".
At the conclusion of the hunt, when horses are covered, fed and watered, riders generally gather to share an "breakfast" (afternoon tea) and thank the landowners.