Elk (cervus elaphus nelsoni) or Wapiti are the largest of all the big game hunting species in New Zealand.

tahr hunt detail

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 our own elk property that has some of the most typical Elk Bulls in the world, second to none the quality is exceptional. 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. 

ELK HUNTING NEW ZEALAND
...A Few Things To Know

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.

Ready to inquire about this hunt? Click the find out more button to get in touch and we'll help you start planning your epic New Zealand safari hunt!

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