Hunting in New Zealand
For some of the finest trophy hunting in the world, come to New Zealand. Large animals hunted include several types of deer (including red, fallow and sika), chamois, tahr, pigs, wallabies and goats, all of which were introduced to New Zealand. In most cases hunting in New Zealand helps keep numbers in check and benefits the environment.
Guided Hunting
Visitors should hire a professional guide, as New Zealand's forests and mountains are physically demanding, the high country weather unpredictable, and local knowledge is essential for a successful hunt. Two sorts of hunting are offered:in the wild and safari ranch hunts. New Zealand also offers fine waterfowl and upland game-bird hunting. Guided hunting gives the opportunity to enjoy exclusive access to top locations on private land otherwise not accessible by the public.
It is recommended that hunters use rifles of .270 minimum calibre. Ammunition is readily available for all common calibres and all professional guides will provide suitable firearms and ammunition.
Recommended hunting locations:
- West Coast
- Lake Brunner
- Fiordland
- Central Otago
- Southern Alps
New Zealand Big Game species:
- Wapiti
- Red Deer
- Sika Deer
- Rusa Deer
- Sambar Deer
- Whitetail Deer
- Fallow Deer
- Himalayan Thar
- Austrian Chamois
- South Pacific Goat
- Wild Pig
- Wild Bulls
Also:
- Opossum
- Rabbit
- Hare
- Duck (in season)
Legalities
On arrival, you should declare imported firearms to New Zealand Customs who will refer you to the airport police for a permit and a Tourist Firearm Licence. You must hold a current gun license, visitors firearms license, or be under direct supervision of someone who does hold a firearms license to use a firearm in New Zealand.
Free Topographic Maps For Hunting
Official New Zealand Topographic Maps available for free online through the new website www.nztopomaps.com
The online service allows users to quickly find, view and print topographic maps for planning recreational hunting or other activities, and includes a place name search function. www.nztopomaps.com provides fast and simple access to the 'NZTopo' Topographic Map Series, which are traditionally purchased as printed paper maps.
The service is also available on smartphones such as iPhone devices, and makes use of their in-built GPS capabilities. Screen shots from an iPhone to demonstrate the use of www.nztopomaps.com on a smartphone are available from our media resources page at www.nztopomaps.com/media/.
Click here to view tourism operators for hunting and shooting in New Zealand.
