Inhabiting the central North Island's east coast of New Zealand, where they do very well in the warmer temperatures Rusa deer have course hair with exceptionally long dark antlers averaging 32+ inches with typical formation of 3x3 although some trophy rusa stags can have a non typical formation.

Rusa deer seek cover during the day, time spent sitting at first light glassing and judging them as they feed proves to be the best way to hunt them. Male rusa deer (stags) can weigh up to 400 lbs with shots ranging from 150-250 yards this is a great New Zealand deer hunt to add to your safari.

With a very distinctive call the rusa stags become aggressive during their rut for the hinds (females) which is from late June to August like the sambar deer.  New Zealand Safaris personally guides clients on private land in the North Island of New Zealand. We also arrange rusa deer hunts in Australia while buffalo hunting. 

A short one hour commercial flight from the South Island with your New Zealand hunting guide to the heart of the rusa deer hunting safari that awaits you. Rusa stags can be hunted from April through August, the meat of this species is considered very tender and tasty for such a big animal.