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DIY hunting in NZ
01 November 2011, 00:28
IvanDIY hunting in NZ
I'm planning a trip to NZ for spring (April/May) of 2013. I've done some research and have narrowed it down a bit, but would like to hear some first hand experiences. I'm most intersted in hunting the south island. Not expecting to kill anything, but thar and chamois are pretty high on the list. We're planning on 2 weeks, but may up it to 3.
I understand the hunting pressure is pretty high on public land, but is it similar to the US where you can out-walk the majority of your competition in 5-6 miles (or less)? I routinely hunt out of a backpack, We're not afraid to hike in 10+ miles.
Is it possible to find someone to drop us off (via air) in more remote places similar to Alaska? If so what are the rates (approximate)
What 3 gear items are a must have?
I believe I can bring the trophies back on the plane if the capes are dry or do do they have to be shipped?
Is access (driving) to the mountains/public land or trail heads difficult? Would I need a 4x4 to get to the better areas?
What are the odds of knocking on a few doors to get permission to hunt stag?
Thanks in advance
01 November 2011, 01:18
scubaproGo and contact my brother - he could probably help You a lot in doing so...
http://www.jaegerfranz.co.nz/html/about_deAll the best
Klaus
01 November 2011, 23:55
gryphon1quote:
Originally posted by scubapro:
Go and contact my brother - he could probably help You a lot in doing so...
http://www.jaegerfranz.co.nz/html/about_deAll the best
Klaus
I had a look at the pics on this part of the link..the text has me stuffed though.
http://www.jaegerfranz.co.nz/
Posts: 87 | Location: Victoria Australia | Registered: 07 September 2002
02 November 2011, 02:26
shanksponyLook hard Gryph, you might see a familiar face.
Your Peters brother Scuba pro? He's just moved my way, I expect to see him some time soon.
Ivan, what you want to do is absolutly possable,Heres some info I put up here a few years back.
http://forums.accuratereloadin.../5621043/m/858109209Its still relevant. I like to help guys who are prepared to do things properly, and have an adventure. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
02 November 2011, 02:34
IvanThanks for all the info so far!
This has been on the list of places to go/hunt for a long time. I love doing things on my own, and figuring out all the details. That way I can 'hunt' for a year before I actually go on the hunt.
Shankspony, I'll be sure to get in touch with you when I have questions. I've been wading around on the DOC web page for a while. It will likely take me a few months to absorb it all into my brain and get a game plan worked up. I think the hardest part will be chosing a place to go, or a couple places. So many choices! Its like hunting here in Alaska...
02 November 2011, 02:40
shanksponyquote:
Originally posted by Ivan:
I'm planning a trip to NZ for spring (April/May) of 2013. I've done some research and have narrowed it down a bit, but would like to hear some first hand experiences. I'm most intersted in hunting the south island. Not expecting to kill anything, but thar and chamois are pretty high on the list. We're planning on 2 weeks, but may up it to 3.
A Tahr and Chamois are reasonable expectations from a 10-4 day trip
I understand the hunting pressure is pretty high on public land, but is it similar to the US where you can out-walk the majority of your competition in 5-6 miles (or less)? I routinely hunt out of a backpack, We're not afraid to hike in 10+ miles.
Yes,but there is a higher % of hunters here who will do the hard work, still there is plenty of space for all
Is it possible to find someone to drop us off (via air) in more remote places similar to Alaska? If so what are the rates (approximate)
Alot of public land is out of bounds fr landing Recreational hunters, but don't be surprised to see helihunting everywhere, as a loophole has been created t allow them freedoms we dont have.
What 3 gear items are a must have?
More specific? Binos, tent, quality sleeping bag
I believe I can bring the trophies back on the plane if the capes are dry or do do they have to be shipped?
Depends more on the customs rules of your home country I think
Is access (driving) to the mountains/public land or trail heads difficult? Would I need a 4x4 to get to the better areas?
No, most west coast spots have a car park near the road, other spots, hire a chopper where possable
What are the odds of knocking on a few doors to get permission to hunt stag?
Slim, but depends on what quality you are looking for. Plenty of public land red deer, but don't expect much more than a 30 inch 8or 10 pointer
Thanks in advance
02 November 2011, 19:17
Matt Grahamquote:
Reply
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Got me stuffed why more North American mountain hunters dont do it??? Especially the tahr???

02 November 2011, 21:51
Ivanquote:
03 November 2011, 02:23
TOP_PREDATORIvan you will need the postal address of a New Zealand firearms licence holder to obtain visitors firearms licence,PM me once you have your flights booked.
"Never in the field of human conflict
was so much owed by so many to so few." Sir Winston Churchill
03 November 2011, 03:41
FinmanI hunted NZ last March, all over Otago. Goats, wallabies, pigs, rabbits and fallow deer. Didn't go prepared but had a great time (the purpose of the visit was not to hunt).
Unless you are going to remote areas, the three things I would definitely have with me are
- knife (sturdy, easy to sharpen, no more than 6 inch long)
- sturdy boots (the terrain is PUNISHING!)
- rain gear and lots of layering garments (weather changes a bit, but you are also going to be there in their spring time, so shouldn't be too cold).
Great folk, excellent gun culture, although everything is so expensive, most folk I met had really old and decrepid kit...Fit buggers though and you better put some time on the treadmill, you'll need every square inch of your lungs and all of your leg power to keep up (unless they provide you with quad bikes).
If you want a recommendation for a hunting outfit, these guys have my support:
www.southernhuntingadventures.co.nzSpeak to Sheldon, great guy.
Hope this helps, good luck!
Finman
better have a gun and not need it than need a gun and not have it....
03 November 2011, 04:45
IvanI love punishment, makes it that much more rewarding.

This years sheep hunt. The mountains were a bit steep, and the alders were brutal!
Thanks Top Predator! If you ever make it up to Alaska, look me up.