New Zealand Safaris
Red Stag Hunting New Zealand
World-class deer hunting in New Zealand
The red stags of New Zealand grow the largest antlers of any animal in the world for their body size, weighing between 350 and 500 lbs.
Most Recent Trophies
A Global Destination for Trophy Red Stags
When European settlers introduced red deer to New Zealand in 1851, they brought with them one of the world’s most iconic game animals. Thriving in an environment of abundant feed, ideal habitat, and few natural predators, New Zealand’s red stags have developed into some of the finest trophies found anywhere, earning the country its reputation as a premier destination for stag hunting.
At New Zealand Safaris, hunters can choose between free-range red stag hunts or our exceptional fair-chase red stag experience, all conducted on private land leased exclusively for our use. Hunts are based out of our hunting lodge (or private cabins/ranch house for free-range hunting) in the heart of the South Island’s renowned high country, as we hunt some of New Zealand’s most iconic cattle and sheep ranches, where vast alpine landscapes provide the perfect habitat for mature trophy stags.
Each morning begins with a hearty breakfast before heading into the hills to glass for stags. We spend time carefully assessing mature animals, matching each hunter with the trophy that best suits their expectations and goals.
Our stags are scored using the Safari Club International (SCI) scoring system, with trophies ranging from 300 inches to over 600 inches. Free-range stags are judged on age and on a per antler-point basis. On a typical day, hunters can expect to see 10 to 30 mature trophy stags during the rut before selecting the right animal and planning a careful spot-and-stalk approach. Rifle shots are generally taken between 80 and 250 yards, depending on terrain and the hunter’s ability.
For archery hunters, the experience becomes even more challenging and rewarding. Using natural cover, calling techniques, and strategically placed blinds, we work to close the distance for shots that average around 50 yards, creating an unforgettable fair-chase hunting experience.
Red stag season runs from February through August, with the rut occurring from March into late April. During the roar, mature stags become highly vocal and territorial, offering one of the most exhilarating hunting experiences in the world.
Trophy Classes
Free-Range Red Stag
Traditional in antler formation and judged by the points they carry and age, our free-range trophy red stags are true mountain deer, with mature main beams that can exceed 35 inches. Rather than hunting to a score, we pursue the biggest, oldest stags the mountains have to offer.
Mature stags typically range from 5×5 to 8×8, and on a typical hunt you can expect to encounter between 4 and 10 trophy-class animals. These are genuinely wild deer, living exactly as nature intended — without selective breeding and roaming expansive, low-fence private high-country properties where they behave naturally.
With exclusive access to our long-term leased hunting areas, every hunt offers an authentic spot-and-stalk experience in spectacular alpine country. It is traditional red stag hunting at its finest, delivering the challenge, scenery, and satisfaction that have made New Zealand one of the world’s premier deer hunting destinations.
Red Stag >360
Traditional in antler formation and very similar to New Zealand’s free-range Red Stags, this is an outstanding class for hunters seeking larger antlers while keeping the classic, symmetrical shape Red Stags are famous for. These animals combine exceptional size with timeless, traditional character — New Zealand Safaris has long held the reputation for some of the finest Red Stags in the world.
Our Most Popular Class
This is where you begin to see the extra points, impressive crowns, palmation, and heavy antler mass New Zealand Red Stags are renowned for. Every stag is unique, and your professional guide will help assess each animal in the field so you can choose a trophy that matches your personal preferences and goals.
Heavy Mass & Palmation
Full points and palmation on a heavy antler frame — the impressive crowns, character, and mass New Zealand Red Stags are renowned for. In this class it is common to encounter exceptional trophies featuring drop tines, non-typical points, and unique antler character, alongside magnificent, heavy-framed typical stags.
Huge Crowns & Length
These exceptional stags are defined by their impressive crowns, sweeping main beams, and an abundance of points carried on massive, non-typical frames. With an average age of 6–9 years they have reached full maturity, displaying the character, mass, and individuality that make each trophy unique. For non-hunting companions, witnessing these animals in the wild and photographing the game and scenery makes for an unforgettable adventure.
True Giants
If you’re looking for a trophy that truly stops people in their tracks, this is the class of Red Stag for you. These genuine giant stags are the result of more than 25 years of careful genetics and selective management on this property, descending from some of New Zealand’s most renowned bloodlines — the pinnacle of New Zealand Red Stag hunting.
The Pinnacle
The pinnacle of trophy Red Stag hunting. These true giants carry massive crowns, exceptional length, heavy antler mass, and the commanding frame that defines a once-in-a-lifetime trophy. Descended from the property’s most renowned bloodlines, they are a testament to decades of careful breeding, management, and conservation.
Their outstanding quality reflects the lifelong dedication of Jim Gibson, owner of New Zealand Safaris, who has spent more than 20 years working alongside landowners to produce world-class Red Stags that stand among the very best New Zealand and the world has to offer.
