NewZengland Clay Shooting & Archery
Clay bird shooting, archery, and air rifles on a high country terrace above the Rakaia Gorge.
NewZengland runs clay bird shooting, archery, and air rifle target shooting from a purpose-built range at Terrace Downs Resort, on the terraces above the Rakaia Gorge near Windwhistle. It is a small, instructor-led operation rather than a big commercial venue — every session is supervised one-on-one, and nobody shoots unaccompanied. The setting is genuinely good: open high country with the Southern Alps behind the shooting stands.
The clay shooting is the main event. Sessions include up to 25 cartridges and clays per person, with shotguns sized to fit — they carry guns suitable for women, men, and children, and instructors adjust calibre and technique so the recoil does not put beginners off. No firearms licence is required; you shoot under direct instructor supervision. From age 10, children are generally strong enough to handle a shotgun, which makes this one of the few shooting experiences in Canterbury that genuinely works for families.
Archery runs as a 30-minute session with an introductory lesson and safety briefing, with bows to fit all sizes including children. Air rifle target shooting is available for ages 10 and up. Groups wanting variety can book the Mini Olympics challenge, which combines clay shooting, archery, and golf chipping — a popular format for corporate groups and stag parties. Sessions run rain or shine, seven days a week.
What to expect
Book ahead — bookings are essential for all activities, with a minimum of two people per session. You meet at Terrace Downs Resort on Coleridge Road, about 25 minutes from Methven across the Rakaia Gorge bridge. A short walkway through trees leads to the activity area; transport is available for anyone with mobility concerns.
Every session starts with a safety briefing and an introductory lesson. Complete novices are the norm here rather than the exception, and the instructors are patient with first-timers. Experienced shooters are catered for too. Spectators are welcome and are given the appropriate safety equipment.
Weather in the high country changes fast, and sessions run in rain unless conditions become unsafe. Wear sturdy footwear with tread and bring warm layers even in summer. Payment is by cash or bank transfer, and a strict cancellation policy applies — charges apply for cancellations or rescheduling within 24 hours of the session.
Best time to visit
NewZengland operates year-round, seven days a week, rain or shine. Summer offers the most settled conditions and long evenings; winter sessions pair well with a Mt Hutt ski trip and are an easy add-on to a Rakaia Gorge or Terrace Downs visit. Book a morning slot in winter, as light fades early. The 24-hour cancellation policy means checking the forecast before you book, not after.
Insider tips
- ✓Bookings are essential — phone 021 158 4259 or use the contact form. Minimum two people per session.
- ✓Wear sturdy footwear with tread and bring warm clothing — the terrace is exposed and alpine weather changes quickly.
- ✓No firearms licence is needed; all shooting is under direct instructor supervision.
- ✓Combine activities — archery plus clay shooting fills a half day, or book the Mini Olympics for groups.
- ✓Cameras are welcome — bring one, the backdrop is worth it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a gun licence for clay bird shooting in New Zealand?
No. At NewZengland you are always accompanied by an instructor and shoot under direct supervision, so no firearms licence is required. If you want to bring your own shotgun, you will need a valid New Zealand firearms licence.
What age can kids do clay shooting or archery?
From around age 10, children are generally strong enough to hold a shotgun, and air rifles are available from age 10. Archery suits younger children too — they carry bows to fit all sizes. Suitability depends on the individual child's build, so mention ages when booking.
How much does clay bird shooting cost near Methven?
Clay shooting at NewZengland costs from NZD $120 per person including up to 25 cartridges and clays. Archery is from NZD $50 per person for a 30-minute session, and air rifle shooting from NZD $60. All activities require a minimum of two people.
Where do you stay for activities at Terrace Downs?
Terrace Downs Resort has on-site villas, but most visitors doing activities in the area stay in Methven, 25 minutes away, where there is a much wider range of accommodation, cafés and restaurants. Visit Methven offers self-contained holiday homes — browse at visitmethven.co.nz/stay.
Practical information
Hours
Daily 8:30am–5:00pm
Price
Archery from NZD $50 per person (30 min); air rifles from NZD $60; clay shooting from NZD $120 (up to 25 clays). Minimum 2 people.
Location
Terrace Downs Resort, Coleridge Road, Windwhistle, 25km north of Methven (25km north of Methven)
Phone
+64 21 158 4259
Booking required
Visit websiteStay near NewZengland Clay Shooting & Archery
Self-contained holiday homes in Methven — book direct and save.
Browse accommodation