Hunting Calendar
Red Deer (Cervus elaphus scoticus)
• The red deer in New Zealand produce very large antlers and are regarded as amongst the best in the world by hunters. Along with the other introduced deer species they are however regarded as a pest by the Department of Conservation and have at times been heavily culled using professional hunters. Additionally many hunters and outdoors enthusiasts class deer in NZ as a resource, for both food, hobbies, and an economic (tourist attraction).
Fallow Deer (Dama dama)
• A smaller species of deer in New Zealand. Various genotypes exist with differing colour / types: Common, Melanistic, Menil and White. They are often found in bush closer to pasture/farmland, as prefer grazing on grass. Major herds are found in the North and South Islands of New Zealand.
Pigs
• They are widespread throughout New Zealand and are commonly hunted using dogs. Pigs range in size and in the wild can exceed 250 pound. They are sought after by hunters as they have a unique free range taste.
Feral Goat (Capra aegagrus hircus)
• The feral goat is a domestic goat when it has become established in the wild. When feral goats reach large populations in habitats which are not adapted to them, they may become an invasive species with serious negative effects, such as removing native scrubs, trees and other vegetation.
Possums
• They are widespread throughout New Zealand and are commonly hunted using rifle.
Rabbits
• Rabbits, hares, possums and ducks are plentiful throughout the country and considered a pest. Pest eradication plans to control the animals are well underway.
