Taranaki's only centre fire shooting range enhanced

Douglas location receives a boost thanks to TET grant

One of the oldest sports in the world has a sure future in Taranaki. The McGregor Hansen Community Rifle Range, located in Douglas east of Stratford, has been upgraded thanks to a TET grant and supporting funding from the TOI Foundation. The range, operated by the North Taranaki branch of the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association, has acquired electronic targets, astro turf and toilet facilities.

"The electronic bullet monitoring equipment will improve safety," said Range Chairman, Rob McGregor. "Shooters will not move forward of the firing line as they will see the bullet placement on a tablet screen beside them." This will speed up shooting events.

The upgraded facility is likely to attract regional and national competitions, Rob says. An opening day is in the pipeline and will include members of the national executive from Wellington.

The outdoor centre fire shooting range is the only one for public use in Taranaki. It has Police certification and is used by the Police.