Went to the CCA Banquet in SA and bought a stag hunt in NZ (north island) with Wanganui Safaris. I have until August 2026 to go on the hunt. It includes two stag so I'll bring my dad as well. To those of you that have been on a stag hunt in NZ, what were your thoughts? Really looking forward to it.

It may be ridiculously expensive, but I'm pretty sure you can bring meat back from there! If nothing else, back straps and tenderloins.

In reply to rak1693 I'd probably open a line of credit and see about adding other big game while there. If you have the legs for it, Chamois, Tahr, Fallow.

Bought that same hunt at CCA SA but different outfitter 6 years ago; went with my Dad (he upgraded to a very large Stag). Set a price and go enjoy it. Don't forget taxidermy and all the importation charges. You can spend a little to a lot very quickly.

That should be a lot of fun...great that you can take your Dad. That is something I wish was still possible.

As for other species, Wanganui has access to anything the N Island has to offer. It looks like they also have trips to the S Island to hunt Chamois and Tahr. Those are more challenging hunts in the mountains and a lot of fun if you have the time.

East of their concession is the Tongariro Nat Park, Mt Ruapehu volcano, etc. The Trout fishing on the Tongariro River is fantastic. Lake Taupo a little further North is a beautiful area. There really is no other place on earth better for outdoor activities than NZ.

There will be no shortage of things to hunt or do while on the N Island.

I didn't realize you were hunting the North Island. When I went it was on the South Island in the Hunters Hills area. Listen to JapanTiger.
Stay in NZ as long as possible to hunt/fish/tourism; it's an amazing country.

In reply to japantiger The outfitter has .300 and .308 WIN mag rifles you can use for $100 on the trip. They recommend using their rifles rather than going through the hassle of bringing our own. My dad and I both have a 7mm MAG. What is your thought of using the outfitter's rifles?

I'm guessing you need to get in as good a physical shape as possible.

I'm headed to the South Island later this month with some buddies. I don't have much to recommend, as we will only be on the North Island to change planes. I do know that we will be hunting with the outfitter's rifles. I have typically taken my rifle on all my international hunts, but the guys I am going with have been with the outfitter that we are doing with and highly recommended just using theirs. I believe we are using suppressed .300 Win Mags. Can't wait!

In reply to MAROON I didn't do anything special to prepare. If you're out of shape and can't hike up and down mountains then yes you need to exercise before going.

A friend/customer of mine just got back from a hunt in NZ and successfully took a huge Red Stag!