ACT proposes reclassifying deer and game animals as 'natural resources' instead of pests

ACT wants legislation to recognise game animals and game-birds as "natural resources to be sustainably managed", shifting from DOC's approach of treating introduced species like deer primarily as pests. Deputy leader Nicole McKee announced the policy at the Hunting & Wildlife Expo on 25 July 2026. Conservation spokesperson Cameron Luxton said hunting groups already contribute hundreds of hours to conservation work.