New Zealand is regularly identified as one of the most desirable countries in the world to visit and for good reason. It features magnificent scenery, a temperate climate, friendly people and a multitude of things to do from thrill seeking adventures to leisurely wine tours. In fact, aside from driving on the other side of the road, it has to be one of the easiest countries in the world to tour. It is no wonder visitors go back time after time.
One of New Zealand’s premier lodges and top hunting destinations, Poronui Lodge, is nestled within 16,000 acres of wilderness area on New Zealand’s North Island. Its prime location sports an outstanding population of trophy deer as well as mind-blowing fishing for brown and rainbow trout, while its world-class accommodations ensure that even non-hunters have the time of their lives.
Red Stag Hunting
New Zealand affords some amazing hunting opportunities from the mighty red stag and cunning Sika to the Himalayan Tahr and European Chamois of the Southern Alps. In fact, there are six species of deer available in New Zealand (red stag, Sika, fallow, Rusa, Sambar, whitetail) as well as elk, tahr, chamois, wild pigs, goats and Arapawa sheep.
Poronui was the site of the original liberation of Sika deer in New Zealand and remains the focus of the free range population, producing many top class trophies each year. Its 3,000 acre game estate also provides challenging hunting for magnificent red stags, fallow bucks and Rusa stags.
Sika rut in mid to late April when they become particularly vocal and aggressive.
There is nothing like the high pitched call of the Sika stag to make the hair stand up on your neck. Stags will come to a call, often crashing in aggressively which makes for exciting hunting! Top trophies are often taken prior to the rut in April, but for sheer adrenaline there is nothing quite like targeting rutting Sika.
Fishing in New Zealand
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.
New Zealand Habitat
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.
Accommodations
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!
Hunting Seasons
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.
Trophy Expectations
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 (44) with good trophies 26-30 inches in length. Rusa on the other hand have six points (33) with trophy specimens reaching lengths from 25 to over 30 inches.
Weather & Travel
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.
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.
PRICING
A number of package options are provided as examples of popular Poronui hunts. These can be varied or upgraded or a personalized package developed to suit your needs.
Red Stag & Sika Combination
US $11,050 Single (1×1)
US $9,725 pp Share Twin (2×1)
- This package includes 5 nights accommodation, 4 days guided hunting, Sika Stag and Silver Medal Red Stag (SCI 300-319).
Gold Medal Package
US $9,875 Single (1×1)
US $8,750 pp Share Twin (2×1)
- This package includes 4 nights accommodation, 3 days guided hunting, and Gold Medal Red Stag (SCI 340-359).
Silver Medal Package
US $6,375 Single (1×1)
US $5,250 pp Share Twin (2×1)
- This package includes 4 nights accommodation, 3 days guided hunting, and Silver Medal Red Stag (SCI 300-319).
Three Species Package
US $14,650 Single (1×1)
US $13,275 Share Twin (2×1)
- This package includes 5 nights accommodation, 4 days guided hunting (1×1), Sika Stag, Fallow Buck and Silver Medal Red Stag (SCI 300-319).
Four Species Package
US $21,650 Single (1×1)
US $19,850 Share Twin (2×1)
- This package includes 7 nights accommodation, 6 days guided hunting, Sika Stag, Fallow Buck, Rusa Stag and Silver Medal Red Stag (SCI 300-319).
Additional Expenses
Airfare: typical international air averages $1,800 to $2,500. Internal Air New Zealand flights to Taupo averages $150.*
- These averages are subject to change and provided as estimates only. Actual prices may vary.
License fees: no hunting licenses are required
Firearms permit: a permit to import a firearm is required if you wish to bring your own rifle. This can be obtained when you arrive in Auckland Airport.
For More information or questions – please fill out the form below or contact us at 678.388.2205
