The extensive bush and forest in Ruapehu District is home to wild goat, turkey, pig, red stag and fallow deer where fair chase and free range hunting is available.
The “Roar” or the Rutt is mating season for Deer and is the best time to hunt them as they are more vocal and easier to locate. The season starts in late March and runs through April and May.
Local professional guiding services are recommended. As the terrain can be physically demanding and weather unpredictable, having local knowledge can assist with safety issues and also increase the chances of a successful hunt. Bow and rifle hunting is available.
While hunting on public lands is possible, guided hunting offers the opportunity to access some very special and secluded locations in Ruapehu.
For those wanting to hunt on public conservation land, a permit must be obtained from the Department of Conservation. Hunters are informed of any pest control operations happening in the area they are hunting and the Department can keep track of how many people are hunting in each area for safety reasons. A current firearms license is essential.
Visitors may bring firearms into the country, but these must be declared to Customs. For further details please see https://www.police.govt.nz/faq/items/23136