New Zealand Safaris
Rusa Deer Hunting
Elusive and rare
The most elusive deer in the New Zealand bush, rusa have the narrowest distribution of all the recognised deer species here.
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Long, Dark Antlers on the East Coast
Rusa deer are native to Indonesia and were mistakenly introduced into New Zealand in 1907 under the impression they were sambar deer. Inhabiting the central North Island’s east coast, where they do very well in the warmer temperatures, rusa have coarse hair with exceptionally long, dark antlers averaging 32+ inches, in a typical 3×3 formation — although some trophy stags can be non-typical.
Rusa seek cover during the day; time spent sitting at first light, glassing and judging them as they feed, proves the best way to hunt them. Male rusa (stags) can weigh up to 400 lb, with shots ranging from 150 to 250 yards — a great New Zealand deer hunt to add to your safari.
Hunting Rusa Deer
New Zealand Safaris personally guides clients on exclusive private hunting properties throughout the North Island, home to some of New Zealand’s finest rusa deer.
From New Zealand’s South Island, a convenient one-hour commercial flight with your New Zealand hunting guide takes you directly to the heart of your North Island rusa deer safari. This seamless travel connection allows hunters to experience multiple species and diverse hunting environments within a single trip, making the most of their New Zealand hunting adventure. Rusa and sambar deer have very similar ruts; the ideal time to hunt is June/July, and you can add sika on to make it a well-rounded North Island safari. Red stag hunts are also available on request in the North Island.
Hunting Rusa Deer — A Few Things to Know
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 — excellent to take home, which we can help with.