Waitematā Hunt Inc

The thrill of the chase

At Waitematā Hunt, an artificial scent is laid across the countryside during the Hunt meet.  Hounds, Huntsman, Master and the field of riders follow the scent over well prepared jumps, or through the farm gates.  We get to enjoy the thrill of following a pack of hounds at full cry, over some magnificent countryside.  Waitematā Hunt's territory is predominantly to the north west of Auckland, on many farms situated between Dairy Flat to the south, South Head to the west and Warkworth to the north.  

Joining the Waitematā Hunt is a rewarding and fun experience. The hunt offers an annual calendar of events including hunting, treks, hunt schools, hunter trials, day treks, competitions, and non-mounted social events. 

We hunt twice a week during the 'hunt season' which is March - May. And outside of the hunt season run other activities.

Most members choose to pay the annual subscription by automatic payment, meaning you can spread the cost over the full year by paying monthly rather than having to pay the membership fee all in one lump sum.

Hunt Etiquette & General Info

• The Hunt is, at all times, the guest of the property owner. Respect this privilege.

• As a courtesy to the Master, every rider should be mounted and prepared to move off on time. Introduce any guests to the Master well before the hounds move off.

• Stay behind the Master at all times and follow his/her line.

• All followers must acknowledge that neither the Hunt nor the Landowner or Managers can be held liable for any personal injury or damage to riders, horses or vehicles arising from the Hunts activities.

• The Master, Huntsman, Whippers-In and hounds should be given the right of way at all times. Please turn your horse’s head towards them so as to prevent your horse from kicking out as they pass.

• Always stay with the field. Taking shortcuts can upset the scenting.

• Ride slowly around stock. Do not ride over ploughed fields, through crops or over young grass or barred country.

• If your horse refuses, you can try twice again. If it refuses on the third attempt, then ride through the gate.

• When gates need shutting please call ‘Gate Please’. Ensure the following rider has acknowledged your call. Dismount and tend the gate if stock is close by.

• Please report any damage to Master or a Committee member.

• If you see a danger such as a hole or branch you should call ‘Ware hole’ or ‘Ware branch’.

• If your horse kicks, put a ribbon in the tail and ride responsibly. The red ribbon provides no excuse should you kick a rider or another horse.

• Permission must be obtained from a Committee member if you retire from the field early.

• Riders when going home must hack only. No jumping.

• At the completion of the meet remain with the hounds until they are in the truck.

• It is a courtesy remain in Hunt attire and to stay until the Master has thanked the landowners. Please bring a plate.

• Please take away all your rubbish and horse manure.

• No domestic dogs allowed at any meet.