4.1 Hamper Configuration.
The carriage of pigeons is to be within the recognised rectangular or square hamper configuration, allowing for adequate air exchange at both sides and top and for the pigeons to freely view their outside surroundings.
4.2 Size of hampers.
It is recognised that private pigeon carry hampers are constructed in many sizes to suit or fit individual circumstances, such as vehicle configuration, and it is not intended to interfere with this freedom. Instead, PRNZ sets minimum space requirements per pigeon as follows:
4.3 Height Allowance in hampers.
The minimum height for all hampers, whether owned by PRNZ or otherwise, is 250 mm and is exclusive of all wire and plastic mesh bottom inserts.
4.4 Flooring of Hampers.
Hampers floors are to be provided with either a raised mesh insert to allow droppings, food, and water spillage to fall below the mesh, or be covered in a layer of clean dry litter such as straw or non-treated sawdust to absorb droppings and spillage. The use of paper or cardboard floor covering without accompanying litter is not acceptable.
4.5 Space per pigeon in hampers.
The space allowance per pigeon will vary according to the time such confinement is in force, the distance of the race and whether provision has to be made to feed and water the pigeons en route and at the liberation site.
4.6 Scope of Allowance.
This allowance pertains to pigeons being conveyed in any hamper used for training and/or racing or for conveyance of pigeons to the clubrooms for entry into competition.
4.7 Confinement Provisions
The space allowance is made on the following basis:
Overnight confinement of 12 hours or less duration measured from the longest competitor, allow a minimum of 270 cm2 per pigeon per hamper. For competition events, the confinement period commences at the club starting time for acceptance of pigeons for entry.
Confinement in excess of 12 hours as described, allow 335 cm2 per pigeon per hamper to ensure the pigeons can achieve the normal reclining position, typical for extended travel.
Examples of permissible pigeons per hamper are shown as follows:
The standard "small" waxed board hamper dimensions are 45 cm x 75 cm = 3375 cm2 divided by 270 cm2 = 12 pigeons for overnight confinement and when divided by 335 cm2 = 10 pigeons for extended periods and for when feed is necessary.
The standard "large" waxed board hamper dimensions are 60 cm x 90 cm = 5400 cm2 divided by 270 cm2 = 20 pigeons for overnight confinement and when divided by 335 cm2 = 16 pigeons for extended periods and for when feed is necessary.
PRNZ rules that it is an offence for hampered birds to be provided less space than provided for in the conditions of this section.