The South Canterbury Hunt Inc.

Etiquette, Safety & Common Sense

While hounds are hunting, riders must remain focused on the progress and conduct of the hunt. Established conventions and etiquette exist to ensure the safety, enjoyment, and efficiency of the day for everyone involved.

Respect for Landowners

The hunt is always a guest of the landowner. This privilege must be respected at all times.
Keep off young grass and crops.
Shut all gates if there is any doubt.
Report any damage to fences or property—no matter how minor—to the Master or Deputy immediately.

Photography & Media

No photographs or video may be taken (including on mobile phones) without the express permission of the Master.

Horses & Riders

Riders wishing to qualify horses must notify the Master before the hunt begins.
It is assumed all riders are competent horse people with mounts that are safe and manageable.
Problem horses should not be brought into the field. If necessary, they must be ridden at the rear.
Horses known to kick must wear a red ribbon in the tail and be ridden well clear of others.
Green ribbons indicate young or inexperienced horses—please give them space.

Visitors & Non-Members

Non-members and new followers must obtain prior approval from the Master before hunting.
Members are asked to:
- Introduce visitors to the Master and make them feel welcome.
- Ensure visitors know who the Field Secretary is and that caps are paid on arrival if not prepaid.
- Assist visitors or young riders who may be having difficulties with their mounts.
- Be ready to move off promptly so the Master can announce any special conditions for the day.

Order of the Field

Never ride in front of the Master.
Always give way to the Master, Deputies, Huntsman, Whippers-in, and hounds.
It is courteous to give way to senior members.
The correct riding order is:

Hounds → Huntsman → Whippers-in → Master → Deputies → Ladies → Gentlemen → Children

Riding Etiquette

Follow the line the hounds are taking; do not cut corners unless well behind them.
If your horse refuses a fence, move immediately to the rear and wait your turn.
- Do not repeatedly attempt the same fence while others are waiting.
- After three refusals, find a gate—it is safer and prevents damage to the ground.
Ride straight to fences and exit in a straight line to avoid interfering with others.
Turn your horse to face oncoming riders or hounds to prevent kicking.
Keep noise to a minimum when hounds are working, as raised voices can distract them.
When gating, wait until the last rider has passed through before opening the gate.

Safety & Hazards

Riders participate at their own risk.
All riders must wear appropriate safety attire.
- A properly fitted, fastened protective helmet is strongly recommended at all times when mounted.
- Helmets must fit correctly and not move when the head is tipped forward.
Be alert to hazards including:
- Implements hidden in long grass or behind hedges
- Wire or electric fences (which may still be live)
- High wires above fences
- Holes and rough ground. Riders should note these hazards, particularly if returning to the area later in the day.
While riders generally follow the Master’s line, each rider is responsible for choosing a safe route for their horse.

Dogs

Dogs should not be brought to hunts.
If permitted, they must be kept on a lead at all times and have a current tapeworm dosing certificate.

Conclusion of the Day

It is customary for riders to pool lunch (the “hunt breakfast”) at the conclusion of the day’s hunting.
It is good manners to remain until the Master has formally thanked the landowners.

Hunting Terminology

Hunts are referred to as Hunts, not “Hunt Clubs”.
Hounds are not called dogs; they “speak” or “give tongue”. This sound is referred to as “music”, not barking.
Hounds are traditionally counted in couples:
- 23 hounds = 11½ couple
- 18 hounds = 9 couple