Species of Commonly Found Big Game and Fish in New Zealand

New Zealand is an amazing hunting and fishing habitat. This is because originally, there were few animals here except for birds and fish. Most species have been introduced by European settlers from the mid 1800's and onwards. New mammals and fish were introduced for economic and sporting interests into this virgin environment. Sheep, cattle, deer, elk, tahr, chamois and many more 'game' mammals were 'acclimatized' by the early settlers.

Although the environment plays a large role in the evolution of these introduced animals, game management and genetic selection also plays a significant role. For over 150 years New Zealanders have made their primary income from farming, especially sheep and cattle farming. Modern times dictate modern methods. Just as today's genetics and breeding programs have produced the finest wool in the world, they have also produced the largest and most sought after red deer in the world.

We hope to provide some relevant information for the serious sportsman in the species table below.

New Zealand Red Stag

Shortly after European settlers arrived in New Zealand they acclimatized the red deer, primarily  for sport. Since 1851 the red deer has been systematically introduced to both the North and South Islands and have grown to abundant number since. Red stags are in rut in March and April. A roaring red stag is enough to get even a seasoned hunter's heart racing. Red stags are now approaching SCI 500+ on South Island game farms. Records will be set here and no doubt new record book stags will be born. This is a result of advanced genetic planning and environment in which these new generation stags are a part of.

Himalayan Tahr

Himalayan Tahr are native to Asia and were first introduced in the South Island high country in 1904. Since then they have thrived in their new habitat and are plentiful. Tahr bulls are usually solitary or in bachelor groups. With the onset of rut in May, bulls will join the nannies. Although this is a relatively small animal, (300lbs) the hunt for tahr is challenging as the terrain in which they live is very steep and often rocky. Both male and female have horns but the real trophy is the bull's impressive mane. New Zealand's South Island is the only place in the world to hunt tahr.

European Chamois

European Chamois are a member of the antelope family and were introduced to New Zealand's South Island high country in 1907. The liberated herds were from Austria and took well to their new home in the alpine terrain of the Southern Alps. These extremely agile animals occupy some of the most spectacular alpine hunting grounds in New Zealand's Southern Alps. Bucks are normally solitary but will join with does in April for about a month. Bucks can be heard defending their territory with a unique whistle-like sound.

Fallow Deer

The first fallow deer were liberated in New Zealand in 1864. After multiple releases, fallows have become the second most common deer here. Although they are smaller than their red deer cousins, fallow bucks can be very vocal and aggressive during rut. After the red stag, the fallow buck is the most favored of the deer species with visiting hunters. Bucks are being taken today are in excess of 230 SCI. Best hunting times are March through to September, with the onset of rut in April.

Wild Boars

In the late 1700's Captain Cook liberated pigs in New Zealand. With no predators here, these animals thrived and now populate most areas of both the North and South Islands. Boar hunts are commonly conducted with trained hunting dogs. Boars can be unpredictable and very aggressive. A boars may  weigh up to 300lbs and can be taken with knife, bow or rifle. (not for the faint hearted) Wild boars can be hunted year-round.

Combine Fishing and Hunting:
We can organize fishing adventures into your New Zealand hunting safari as well. We'll advise on the best times to coordinate your trip and make the most if your outdoor adventure. See our Packages for more information or contact us and we'll create a custom tailored adventure for you.