Traveling internationally with firearms can be a complicated undertaking, particularly when hunting in New Zealand where rifle regulations are more rigorous than in other parts of the world. While we are always happy to assist our clients through the permitting process wherever possible, importing rifles into the country requires significant preparation, strict adherence to regulations, and additional considerations should your travels extend beyond your hunt with us. For many hunters, utilizing our rifle hire service removes unnecessary stress and allows them to focus entirely on the experience ahead.
At Glen Dene Hunting and Fishing, we have invested heavily in building a rifle system that reflects the same standard of quality we apply to every aspect of our operation. Each guide carries carefully selected, top-tier rifles, including premium platforms such as Blasers and Bergaras, specifically set up for the style of hunting we conduct in New Zealand’s diverse terrain. In practical, effective calibres that provide ample performance without excessive recoil, these rifles are designed to perform equally well for seasoned hunters and those with far less shooting experience, including first-time hunters and younger family members.
Our rifle selection ranges from .17 calibre rifles through to .300 Winchester Magnums, allowing us to match both the targeted game species and the individual hunter with the most suitable setup. For younger or recoil-sensitive shooters, we offer .223 and .243 options that provide an approachable and confidence-inspiring introduction to hunting without sacrificing effectiveness in the field. Additionally, rifles with both right- and left-handed bolt actions ensure every client is equipped with a rifle that feels natural, comfortable, and intuitive to operate.
Our rifle hire fee is NZD $200 per week and includes all ammunition required throughout your hunt.
A tremendous amount of time and attention goes into preparing each rifle. Every barrel has individual ammunition preferences, and we dedicate considerable effort to identifying the most accurate load before custom matching our dial-up scope systems accordingly. The result is a rifle setup that inspires confidence, performs consistently in the field, and allows hunters to focus fully on the moment rather than the equipment in their hands.
All of our rifles are fitted with suppressors, which significantly reduce recoil and muzzle blast while also protecting hearing and allowing for unhindered communication between guide and hunter during critical moments. Many clients remark that shooting our suppressed .308 rifles feels more comparable to shooting a .22 than a traditional big-game rifle. The reduced recoil and noise make for a far more comfortable shooting experience.
Perhaps the most important component of our rifle systems, however, is the quality of the optics. We firmly believe exceptional glass is one of the greatest advantages a hunter can have in the field. High-quality optics make locating an animal through the scope faster and more intuitive, while also allowing precise dialing and assured shot placement in constantly changing conditions. In poor weather or moments requiring quick target acquisition, superior optics become invaluable.
This is especially important when guiding hunters with limited shooting experience. Often, the most difficult aspect for beginners is not the shot itself, but learning how to position correctly behind the glass, acquire the animal through the scope efficiently, and remain composed in the moment. Our optics and rifle systems are intentionally selected to simplify this process as much as possible, helping hunters of all experience levels feel comfortable and capable in the field.
Because many of our shots are taken from the prone position, all guide rifles are equipped with bipods to provide the most stable shooting platform possible. When terrain or physical limitations make prone shooting impractical, guides also carry shooting sticks to ensure every hunter has the best available support for an ethical and confident shot.
At Glen Dene Hunting and Fishing, we believe details matter. From our guiding and accommodation to the equipment we place in our clients’ hands, everything we do is approached with care and to the highest standard possible. Our rifle systems are no exception. Thank you for trusting us with what we know is often a long-awaited hunting experience of a lifetime.