New Zealand Safaris
Varmint Hunting
From wallaby to rabbits, an abundance
These introduced species compete with our livestock for food. Listed as pests, hunting them is our part of game management in New Zealand.
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The Waimate Wallaby
In 1870, Captain Thomson brought over two female and one male red-neck wallaby from Australia to our local Waimate district in the South Island. The lack of predators and abundance of food now sees huge populations spread throughout this area, where they began to breed prolifically in the hill country. Wallabies can grow up to 1 m tall and up to 25 kg in weight.
The weather and feed conditions in New Zealand mean they can breed all year round, leading to a population boom now estimated at 11 million. They are mainly found in mountain grass (tussock) areas but live anywhere they can find cover and food. They are primarily nocturnal but can be found out in the daytime in winter, when overnight temperatures are very cold and they need to warm up in the shortened daily sun.
Hunting Varmint
This hunt is more an adventure for the hunter, and for someone seeking a totally unique experience. Coupled with a big game hunt, it makes an excellent add-on to a true New Zealand safari. There is no hunting season on them — they can be hunted year round, often by spotlight on the classic New Zealand night shoot.
