New Zealand Safaris
White Stag Hunting
One of the rarest trophies in the hunting world
The White Stag — along with the White Hind found in both red deer and fallow deer — is one of the rarest and most remarkable animals in the hunting world.
Most Recent Trophies
A Naturally Occurring Rarity
Their distinctive white coat is the result of a naturally occurring genetic condition known as leucism, which reduces the pigmentation in an animal’s hair and skin while leaving the eyes their normal colour.
Unlike albinism, which affects melanin production and typically results in pink or red eyes, leucistic deer retain normal eye pigmentation. Their striking white coat creates an unforgettable contrast against New Zealand’s rugged alpine landscapes, making every encounter a truly extraordinary experience.
Legend and Symbolism
Throughout history, the White Stag has held a special place in mythology and folklore across many cultures. It has long been regarded as a symbol of purity, mystery, wisdom, and the pursuit of adventure.
Hunters of old sought the elusive White Stag not simply for the opportunity to harvest it, but because the pursuit itself represented the thrill of discovery and the promise of new adventures. In Scouting tradition, the White Stag became a symbol of continually striving toward higher ideals, overcoming challenges, and embracing the unknown with courage and determination.
Today, the White Stag remains one of the world’s most iconic and sought-after game animals, admired as much for its rarity as for its beauty.
Our White Stag Program
For many years, Jim Gibson has carefully managed one of our exclusive hunting properties to develop what has become one of the most talked-about White Stag populations in the world. Through selective wildlife management and a strong commitment to conservation, these remarkable genetics have been preserved while maintaining the health and quality of the herd.
Managed for the Long Term
Many of our mature White Stags develop dark, richly coloured antlers with distinctive white tips, creating a spectacular contrast that makes each trophy truly unique.
To ensure the long-term strength of this exceptional bloodline, only a very limited number of White Stag hunts are offered each season. Harvest opportunities are carefully managed so mature breeding animals can continue passing on their rare genetics to future generations.
The first White Stag harvested from our program was an impressive 12-year-old stag, demonstrating our commitment to harvesting only mature animals that have already made a significant contribution to the herd.
A White Stag hunt with New Zealand Safaris is far more than the pursuit of a rare trophy — it’s the opportunity to experience one of nature’s most extraordinary animals while participating in a carefully managed conservation program that protects this remarkable genetic legacy for generations to come.