New Zealand Stag Hunting

The reputation of Poronui as a premier lodge is largely based upon the world class fishing for brown and rainbow trout available in the high country rivers of the Central North Island. If fly fishing for large (4-10 lb.) visible trout in crystal clear rivers surrounded by pristine native forest excites you, then you probably need to add some extra days to your hunting trip! The fishing season is from October 1 to June 30 with March, April and May great months for both fishing and hunting.

The fringes of forested areas and high valleys of mixed pasture, scrub and tall beech forest provide ideal habitat for deer. They are also perfect for the spot and stalk technique employed for most hunters.

The topography is rolling rather than steep and a network of excellent tracks provides access to most of the hunting country. As a result, hunters of varying degrees of fitness are able to enjoy a successful hunt.

The stags have hard antler and are able to be hunted from mid February though until September, with the peak of the rut from the end of March to mid April for red stags and extending into April for Sika and Fallow.

New Zealand produces magnificent red stags and Poronui is no exception.  The country is ideal for stags with trophies exceeding 400 SCI shot most seasons.  A range of stags from 300 SCI to over 400 SCI are available on the property.  Sika trophies typically have eight points (4*4) with good trophies 26-30 inches in length.  Rusa on the other hand have six points (3*3) with trophy specimens reaching lengths from 25 to over 30 inches.

The quality of the hunting is matched by accommodation and service found at each of three accommodation options.

• Choose the social atmosphere of the lodge with its seven separate chalets, if you enjoy mixing with other hunters.
• The Blake House provides accommodation of the very highest standard and is booked for a single party, enabling you enjoy the ultimate private retreat.
• For those seeking more of an outdoor experience, the safari tent camp is situated next to the Mohaka River.  The queen size beds, hot showers and flush toilets enable you to enjoy the wilderness in comfort!

American hunters arrive into Auckland International Airport after flying from Los Angeles or San Francisco.  Air New Zealand provides direct flights, while other options such as Quantas are routed through Australia, adding three hours or more to the journey.

From Auckland, it is a 35 minute flight to Taupo, where you will be met for the short drive to Poronui.

The climate is classed as temperate though it can be hot and dry in the summer and cold if a southerly storm hits in July or August.  In the autumn, daytime temperatures typically range from 50 to 70 degrees, though you can expect cool evenings and a morning frost or two during your stay.