A hunter who shot his mate, resulting in the friend having his arm amputated has pleaded guilty to using a firearm causing injury.
Desmond Brannigan, 49, appeared in Palmerston North District Court today.
Brannigan was remanded to reappear on February 27 for sentencing.
Ross Smith, 38, was shot while hunting with Brannigan in the Pohangina Valley, west of Komako, 45km northeast of Palmerston North, on December 7.
He was flown to Palmerston North Hospital for emergency surgery after lying in the bush for several hours while his hunting companion ran to get help.
His left arm was amputated below the elbow five days after the accident.
