Tauranga Archers Club and Shooting Rules

Tauranga Archers shooting rules are subject to change without notice. 

The archery range at Graham Park is leased to Tauranga Archers by the Tauranga City Council, and we must all ensure that we conduct ourselves safely. We are in a public space, members of the public should be able to pass safely.

If there is any potential risk to the public stop shooting immediately until the risk is cleared.

You must have completed the Accident Waiver and Release of Liability form to participate in club shooting. Please check with a committee member if you have not completed this form before commencing your shoot.

In order to ensure your safety and the safety of others on and near the range, members must abide by the following rules at all times, including when entering or leaving the archery range. Spectators should be made aware of these rules where applicable.

Tauranga Archery Club – Club & Shooting Rules (2026)

Authority
These Club Rules are issued by the Executive of Tauranga Archery Club Incorporated under the authority of the Club’s Constitution.

All members, visitors, and participants must comply with these Rules and with all lawful directions given by:

  • the Executive,
  • appointed Range Officers,
  • coaches, instructors, and
  • authorised Club officials.

These Rules may be amended from time to time by the Executive.

1. General Safety and Conduct

  • Never aim, draw, or release a bow in the direction of another person.
  • Always follow the instructions and directions of the appointed Range Officer or authorised Club official.
  • Skydrawing is prohibited.
  • Dryfiring (releasing a bow without an arrow) is prohibited.
  • Compound bows must not exceed 60 lb peak draw weight.
  • Running on the range is prohibited.
  • Closed‑toe footwear must be worn at all times on the range.
  • Crossbows may not be used at any time.
  • Targets must not be jumped on, climbed on, or otherwise misused.
  • If an archer cannot safely reach an arrow, assistance must be requested.
  • Do not touch another archer’s equipment without permission.
  • No person may shoot while under the influence of alcohol or any substance that may impair judgement or safety.
  • Club equipment must be treated with care. Damage, misuse, or negligent handling may result in liability for repair or replacement and/or disciplinary action under the Constitution.

2. Range Access and Use

  • Designated footpaths must be used when entering or exiting the archery range.
  • Only field points are permitted. Broadheads or hunting points are strictly prohibited.
  • Archers must check in front of and behind targets for hazards or persons before shooting.
  • Club targets are primarily for use by financial members.
  • Visitors, casual participants, and trial archers may use Club facilities only with approval of the Executive or an appointed Range Officer and subject to any conditions imposed.

3. Juniors and Supervision

  • Participants under the age of 16 years must be accompanied and supervised by an adult aged 18 years or older, unless otherwise approved by the Executive.
  • Additional supervision requirements may be imposed for coaching sessions, events, or Have‑a‑Go activities.

4. Shooting Line and Arrow Retrieval

  • Where a Range Officer is present, all shooting and arrow retrieval is under their control.
  • Where no Range Officer is present, arrows may only be retrieved when:
    • all archers have completed their set,
    • bows are placed down, and
    • archers are standing behind the shooting line.
  • Only shoot at the target assigned to you. Archers must not intentionally shoot at another archer's target, lane, or any object not designated as a shooting target by the Club

5. Archery Etiquette

  • Respect fellow archers at all times.
  • Avoid boasting, mocking, or disparaging comments about another archer’s equipment or ability.
  • Avoid offering unsolicited coaching or advice unless there is an immediate safety concern.
  • Respect archers who prefer silence while shooting.
  • Do not shoot at distances beyond your personal ability or equipment capability.
  • Avoid unnecessary delays during busy sessions by taking excessive time per end.

6. Waivers and Consent

  • Participation in Club activities is subject to completion of the Club’s approved waiver process.
  • No person may participate unless they have:
    • completed the Individual Waiver (2026), or
    • signed the Group Participant Declaration, with the Individual Waiver attached.
  • Parent or guardian consent is required for participants under 18 years of age.

7. Enforcement and Discipline

  • Failure to comply with these Rules may result in:
    • removal from the range or activity;
    • suspension of shooting privileges; and/or
    • disciplinary action in accordance with Clause 7 (Dispute Process and Resolution) of the Club Constitution.
  • All enforcement and disciplinary action will be carried out fairly and consistently with the principles of natural justice.

8. Acknowledgement

Adherence to these Rules is a condition of participation in Tauranga Archery Club activities.
Failure to comply may result in loss of participation privileges.