New Zealand’s reversed seasons and absence of native predators allow deer and alpine game to thrive. The hunting season begins in February with red stag and elk (wapiti) stripping velvet, and most trophy hunting occurs from early March through the end of July. Tahr and chamois can be hunted year‑round, but their capes are prime from May through August. Other deer species like fallow, sika, rusa and sambar are hunted during their ruts between May and October.
Reversed seasons and abundant game make New Zealand a South Pacific paradise for both deer and alpine hunters.
Southern Alps (South Island) Steep alpine terrain supports Himalayan tahr and Alpine chamois. Hunts occur on foot or via helicopter access, with the best capes obtained May–August when animals carry thick winter coats.
Otago & Canterbury Rolling hills and valleys on the South Island offer high‑density red stag, elk, fallow deer and wild boar. Most trophy hunting takes place March–July; private estates allow for selectivity and high success rates.
North Island Bush‑clad hills harbour sika, rusa and sambar deer. These species are hunted primarily from May through October during their ruts.
Fiordland & Stewart Island Remote fiords and rainforest host wapiti (elk) and whitetail deer. Access often requires boat or helicopter, and hunts are limited by permit.
