Search warrants were carried out in Invercargill an Mataura Island. (File photo) Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
Two men have been arrested and guns, ammunition and drugs have been seized as part of a police crackdown on illegal hunters.
Search warrants were carried out in Invercargill and Mataura Island this week as part of Operation Hawk, which targeted illegal hunters and associated criminal activity.
Three guns, ammunition, methamphetamine, cannabis and a four-wheel drive vehicle were taken by police during the warrants, police confirmed.
Senior Constable Nicky Herbert said illegal hunting posed serious risks to public safety, property and the environment.
The two men were facing charges of unlawful possession of firearms, reckless discharging of firearms and entering agricultural land with intent to commit a crime.
Further charges were being considered, police said.
A 24-year-old man would appear in Gore District Court on August 27, while a 28-year-old man would appear in Invercargill District Court on 16 September.
Any unlawful hunting or related activity should be reported to police on 105 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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