More than 460 hunters from throughout New Zealand teamed up to eradicate rabbits and other pests on rural farming properties in the district yesterday morning, and will congregate at Pioneer Park, in Alexandra, for the final count today.
Yesterday, hunt convener Dave Ramsay, of Alexandra, said rabbit infestation levels had been higher than expected by some teams.
A group hunting on property near Queensberry, between Cromwell and Luggate, contacted Mr Ramsay in the afternoon seeking additional ammunition.
"They had a very busy afternoon and were worried about running out of ammo during the night. By 3pm, they had shot and collected more than 300 rabbits, having been hunting for about four hours," he said.
The 19th annual hunt will finish at midday and be followed by live music, entertainment, a hot meal, and plenty of shared stories.
