Pair New Zealand’s trophy hunting with the country’s dramatic scenery, incredible food, and easy add-on adventures—all seamlessly arranged by the Family Expeditions team. This is more than a hunt; it’s a custom journey built around what you want to chase, how you like to hunt, and how you want the rest of your group to experience New Zealand.
From spot-and-stalk red stag and fallow deer hunts to climbing into the mountains for Himalayan tahr and chamois, New Zealand delivers true variety in a single trip—often with the option for helicopter access when you want to reach the most remote, breathtaking country. Between hunting days, we can weave in the parts that make New Zealand so special: world-class wineries and tastings, scenic cruises and wildlife viewing, chef-driven meals, hot pools and spa time, and adrenaline options like jet boating or bungee jumping—so your itinerary feels complete for both hunters and non-hunters.
Wherever you want your New Zealand adventure to go, we handle the logistics and flow—so you can stay focused on the moments that matter most, in the field and beyond it. Let us design your custom New Zealand hunting and touring itinerary.
Hunting
New Zealand delivers trophy-class big game hunting in dramatic terrain, plus the kind of easy, high-reward touring that makes the trip unforgettable for hunters and non-hunters alike. We represent multiple New Zealand programs, and we’ll help you choose the right fit—whether you want a classic red stag focus, a luxury lodge experience, or a multi-species mountain adventure.
Seasons
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General hunting season: typically February–August.
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Red stag roar: late March–early May (often the most requested time for stags).
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Tahr: prime May–July (often paired with helicopter access into remote country).
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Chamois: prime timing varies by goal—many target May–August, while some hunters plan around spring for larger animals or late summer for great coats depending on the program.
Species you can pursue
While red stag is the headline, New Zealand is ideal for building a varied trophy list, often combining:
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Red stag
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Fallow deer
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Elk
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Mountain species: Himalayan tahr and European chamois
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Additional options by program: ram, wild goat, boar, plus occasional turkey/wallaby/waterfowl or seasonal wingshooting.
What to expect (trophy & effort)
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Hunting style: primarily spot-and-stalk on foot for both rifle and bow hunters; vehicles/ATVs may be
used for access, but the stalk is earned.
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Typical shot distances: rifle hunters often see 100–200 yard opportunities (ability to reach 300 is helpful); bowhunters can expect closer, often 20–70 yards depending on species and setup.
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Trophy potential: Red stags can be expected in the 400–750+ SCI range, supported by long-term land and herd management.
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Physical demand: flexible—but be ready for real hiking when you want it. Certain properties have great road systems, yet still offer steep, memorable stalks, and mountain hunts can include helicopter drop-offs followed by boots-on-the-ground hunting in remote country.
Activities
Touring Highlights That Pair Perfectly with Your Hunt:
Wine Tastings & Vineyard Days: Trade mountain boots for a relaxed afternoon of cellar doors, scenic drives, and long tastings that turn into stories over dinner. New Zealand does wine country exceptionally well—beautiful settings, welcoming hosts, and the kind of easygoing atmosphere that makes it the perfect “off-day” between hunt days.
Helicopter Sightseeing: When you want the trip to feel truly next-level, add a heli flight. It’s the fastest way to see how jaw-dropping this country really is—glaciers, peaks, lakes, and valleys laid out beneath you like a postcard. Whether it’s a short scenic hop or a more epic flight, it’s a memory-maker every time.
Adventure Add-Ons: New Zealand is famous for good reason—if your group wants adrenaline, this is the place to lean into it. Bungee jumping, jet boating, sky diving, and hot air balloon rides add that “we can’t believe we did that” energy, and they fit perfectly as half-day or full-day add-ons around 
your hunting schedule.
On-the-Water Days (Fishing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding): Slow the pace and soak up the scenery from the water. Add a fishing day—fresh air, great laughs, and the thrill of a tight line—or keep it relaxed with kayaking or paddle boarding on crystal-clear lakes. It’s an ideal option for non-hunters, couples, and families who want a fun shared day that still feels distinctly “New Zealand.”
Hiking & Scenic Walks: Even a “short walk” in New Zealand can feel like a highlight reel—big views, clean air, and trails that lead to viewpoints you’ll want to photograph from every angle. We can plan anything from easy scenic strolls to more ambitious hikes, making it simple to match the effort level to your group and still get that wow factor.
Golf Days: For golfers, a tee time in New Zealand is more than a round—it’s a day surrounded by the kind of scenery that makes you pause mid-fairway. Whether you want a casual outing or a marquee course experience, we can build in golf that complements the hunt without stealing the spotlight.
Shopping, Town Time & Local Flavor: Add a few hours (or a full day) to explore boutique shops, local markets, and charming towns where you can grab great coffee, enjoy a memorable meal, and bring home something that instantly takes you back to the trip. It’s a simple way to add variety—
especially for mixed groups—without overloading the itinerary.
Wellness & Downtime (Spa, Massages, Pool Time): After early mornings and big days outdoors, a little recovery goes a long way. Think spa treatments, massages, a quiet afternoon by the pool, and the kind of slow, comfortable evening that makes the whole trip feel balanced—so you head home restored, not exhausted.
Scenic Train Rides: If you want a touring day that feels effortless but still special, add a scenic rail experience. It’s a front-row seat to New Zealand’s landscapes—relaxed, comfortable, and perfect for groups that want to keep moving without feeling rushed.
