This huge (up to 1,000lb) deer is the largest of the round-horned deer in the world, with antlers running 5×5 (10 points) and larger in New Zealand they are closely related to Red Stag. The best elk trophies often exceed fifty inches in length. New Zealand Safaris offers clients access to hunt on the elk property that is well known throughout all the New Zealand hunting outfitters. This large, privately owned estate has exceptional trophy elk and while on safari you will typically see between 6-15 trophy elk bulls that can range in score between 350-500+ S.C.I. inches both typical and non-typical.
Because there are very low numbers of pure wapiti left in the wild in New Zealand, free-range hunting is extremely difficult and restricted to a few very remote areas in the rugged south west portion of the South Island where there is a ballot system in place.
Elk hunting in New Zealand typically runs from late February through August. Since the elk rut (bugle) coincides with the red stag, fallow buck, and sika stag ruts many clients find it makes a nice addition to their New Zealand hunting safari.
Your New Zealand hunting guide will give you an indication of what score he will be, we are focused on what the client likes in antlers foremost and class. If the bull goes over that score break the client is not obliged to pay an upgrade unless previously discussed, it is about the hunt and what our client likes over score.
From there we plan our approach to get into a suitable range between 80 – 250 yards and take time to make the shot. Bow hunting on these guys will get your heart pumping with average shots at approximately 40 yards where we can use cover, calling and blinds to get in close. Non hunters are encouraged to take part in the hunt and capture some amazing photos of your New Zealand Safari.
All Seasons Lodge is nestled between the four peaks and Albury Mountains ranges. Our country town of Fairlie in South Canterbury is known as the “Gateway to the Mackenzie Country” named after the legendary Jock Mackenzie, the Scottish sheep rustler who once roamed the mountains.
Your hosts Rhonda and Jim offer their clients a comfortable place to relax and rejuvenate on this 20 acre private setting, while taking in the breath taking views of the ranges.
During your stay, you will be treated to delicious home cooked New Zealand cuisine accompanied by complimentary local beer or wine before retiring to comfortable warm beds. After a great night’s sleep, you can enjoy a cooked or continental breakfast.
The pretty farming town of Fairlie marks the beginning of the Mackenzie Country. Just west of here, Burke Pass takes you into the high altitude, tussock-covered expanses that characterise the region.
While you’re in town and looking for local non-hunting things to do, a visit to the Fairlie Heritage Museum is recommended. It houses one of the biggest vintage wagon and carriage collections in the country. You may like to follow this up with a carriage ride if you’re traveling with a spouse or family around Fairlie township. At lunch time, the locals recommend you try a salmon and bacon pie at the award-winning Lieber Bakehouse.
In winter (June – September), Fairlie is a base for skiing at Mt Dobson (affectionately known as ‘Dobo’) and Roundhill.
During warmer months, the recently created Lake Opuha is popular for boating and fishing; you can also take a llama trek around the lake. Hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, trout fishing and farm tours are other popular activities.
The Raincliff Historic Reserve is the place to see Maori rock art, and famously scenic Lake Tekapo is just a 25 minute drive away.
Chris Waters (aka The Huntsman) is a passionate hunter and communicator who loves sharing his knowledge and hunting adventures. If you want to watch some authentic hunting videos with great production value check out The Huntsman on YouTube.
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