Three men have been arrested after being caught illegally hunting in Matatā.
Police were notified around 11:30pm on Tuesday, that three unknown people were trespassing and illegally hunting on a property on Mimiha Road.
Three males - two aged 19 and one aged 20 - were subsequently arrested. Any potential charges are yet to be confirmed.
Rural Response Manager Senior Sergeant Tristan Murray says, "two deer carcasses were located, and a rifle was seized."
“It’s good to see these unlawful hunters getting caught, our rural community are sick and tired of people going onto their properties in this fashion."
"Unlawful hunting puts other people who may be in the area at risk and could have potentially fatal consequences," Senior Sergeant Murray says.
Police say they would like to remind rural communities they are committed to investigating and preventing this type of offending, delivering the services communities expect and deserve.
Police ask anyone who sees anything suspicious contact them immediately on 111. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.