Police issue warning after illegal hunting incident almost proves fatal

Police have issued a warning about the dangers of illegal hunting after a number of recent incidents nearly proved fatal.

There have been several cases of unlawful hunting and poaching in North Canterbury in recent months. 

They included one on a farm near Omihi, North Canterbury.

Police said lives could be lost if people flout the law.

"Unlawful hunting puts other people who may be in the area at risk, and could have potentially fatal consequences."

They said police took the matter extremely seriously and urged all landowners and station managers to call police immediately if they discover people unlawfully on their land. 

"They can be assured that the appropriate action will be taken against anyone carrying out this type of offending."

Hunters must obtain permission from the landowner or permits from the Department of Conservation.

Unlawful hunting carries a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.

Newshub.