A World Class Experience

NEW ZEALAND ESTATE RED STAG

New Zealand has earned a global reputation as one of the finest destinations for red stag hunting, and for good reason. Today, well managed hunting estates offer a unique opportunity to pursue world class red stags in a setting that blends tradition and adventure.

Estate hunting in New Zealand stands apart for its quality and professionalism. These properties are carefully managed to maintain healthy genetics resulting in exceedingly large antlered stags. As a result, hunters can pursue mature stags that display impressive antler development, often rivaling or surpassing those found anywhere else in the world. For many, the chance to hunt a truly world class estate red stag is a once in a lifetime goal and New Zealand delivers consistently.

Beyond trophy potential, the experience itself is a major draw point. Estate hunts typically take place in stunning landscapes that are wild and expansive. Stalking a roaring stag during the rut, with the sound echoing across alpine valleys, is an unforgettable experience that combines skill and patience. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights into stag behaviour, local history.

Exclusive New Zealand Private Estates

Our red stag hunts take place on expansive, privately managed estates spanning thousands of acres of pristine alpine terrain. Rolling high-country hills, native bush, river valleys, and open tussock provide a setting that is truly breath taking.

While each estate is discreetly managed, the hunting experience remains firmly rooted in fair chase. Stags live naturally within large landscapes, requiring skilled glassing, careful stalking, guided by seasoned professionals who understand both the land and the animals.

Refined Lodging & Cuisine

After the day’s hunt, return to a private lodge offering understated elegance and comfort. Enjoy warm hospitality, premium accommodations, and chef prepared meals featuring local New Zealand ingredients, paired with locally sourced fine wines.

Evenings are relaxed, shared stories, panoramic views, and the quiet satisfaction of a day well spent.

The Hunt

Hunts are conducted using a classic spot and stalk approach. Each day begins with glassing from elevated vantage points, identifying mature stags before planning a precise and deliberate approach. Every hunt is fully guided and customized to your preferences, fitness level, and trophy goals.

Our professional guides are highly experienced, offering expert trophy evaluation, and a calm, confident presence throughout the hunt. Whether you pursue rifle or bow, every detail is handled with discretion and care.

Exceptional Trophy Quality

Estate red stags in New Zealand are among the most sought after trophies in the world. Mature stags display impressive mass, length, and symmetry however if you are looking for something unique we can certainly accommodate. Drop tines, multiple points every animal is different, with carefully structured trophy categories to suit a range of ambitions.

Each animal is selected with intention, ensuring a respectful and rewarding harvest.

Otago Hunting Estate

West Coast Hunting Estate

Estate Red Stag Trophies

Red Stag trophies range from around 330 SCI (Safari Club International) score to 700 SCI. Trophies vary in length, spread and number of points, no two stags look the same. An estate hunt allows the hunter to look over a large number of quality, trophy red stags. The estate is a beautiful and challenging area to hunt. For hunters wanting stags of 500 class and above we can make this happen. These red stags are true giants weighing in at over 500 pounds, with antlers weighing up to 50 pounds (over 20 kilo’s).

Our base line stag scores up to 370, this is a mature trophy stag carrying around 20 points. Our stags are classed in the below categories:

Up to 370

370 – 405

405 – 440

440 – 500

500 – 600

600 +

Vehicle tracks help us to gain elevation to glassing points; hunting is on foot from there. High quality fallow deer are also on the estate and wild pigs which come and go as they please.

For hunters wishing to take a trophy red stag of 300 SCI or larger (free-range stags top out at 260 – 300 SCI) an estate hunt is the only way to achieve this.

Estate Red Stag Hunting Dates

Private estate red stag hunts are available from early February when the stags are stripping their velvet, until late August when the stags shed their antlers. Best dates to hunt are March / April / May, the main roar period being in March and April.

During this time, stags are vocal, dominant, and highly active, creating unforgettable encounters filled with echoing calls across misty valleys and open ridgelines.

Feel free to contact me below for more information

Otago Hunting lodge

West Coast Hunting lodge