The Pursuit: Red Stag Hunting in New Zealand
With Venator New Zealand, you can hunt the King’s Animal across private hunting areas spanning 15,000 acres, with expert guides led by Duncan Fraser. After the hunt, relax in luxury lodges, enjoy gourmet dining, and explore Lake Wānaka’s outdoor adventures, vineyards, and cultural attractions for a fully immersive and unforgettable experience.
Located in arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful region, the Southern Lakes, Venator offers a unique guided trophy red deer hunting experience unlike any other. You will have the opportunity to hunt the king’s animal in a breathtaking landscape, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear lakes across two private hunting areas.
If you're looking to hunt in New Zealand, then look no further than Venator. We have the world's finest New Zealand red deer trophies in a destination where adventure and luxury meet. In addition to the infamous New Zealand red stag, we also offer a range of game animal species, including elk, tahr, fallow bucks, chamois, arapawa rams, wing shooting, fly fishing and small game.
Our team of expert guides, led by the acclaimed Duncan Fraser, invite you to experience the thrill of guided trophy hunts for giant red stags in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, just a stone's throw away from the alpine village of Lake Wānaka. Spot and stalk for nz red stags, take in the breathtaking alpine landscapes and hear the roar of the majestic red stag during the rut on your New Zealand stag hunt. We cater to hunters of all ages and experience levels, ensuring a safe, memorable, and successful adventure for everyone.
After a day in the field there is nothing better than to relax by the outdoor fire, enjoy a glass of Central Otago's finest wine and watch the sunset over the mountains.
Our luxury lodges are located a short drive from our hunting areas and the charming lakeside village of Lake Wānaka, known for its natural beauty and thriving arts and cultural scene. Here, you will find a range of recreational pursuits to enjoy, including; hiking, biking, fly fishing, boating, skiing, kayaking and golf before, during or after your personalised guided trophy hunt.
Keep reading our journal entries.
The best outfitters bring every part of the experience together: high quality animals, exceptional guides, remarkable hunting country, considered accommodation and great food. We sat down with Jacques Hartzenberg during his recent visit to Venator New Zealand to talk about his life in the African bush, the growth of Chapungu-Kambako and what it takes to deliver a complete South African safari hunting experience.
The Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) stands as one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine game animals. Renowned for their thick, flaxen manes, agile nature, and affinity for sheer vertical rock faces, hunting a Bull Tahr in the Southern Alps offers one of the most physically demanding, rewarding pursuits in the Southern Hemisphere. Navigating rugged high-country bluffs, executing precision shots across deep ravines, and enduring the crisp alpine elements leave a lasting impression on every sportsman.
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Last year, we had the pleasure of partnering with Johann Fanzoj to create a custom Classic M98 built around the legendary Mauser 98 action. The bespoke rifle is a reflection of shared values and hunting excellence. Made from premium materials with meticulous attention to detail, the Classic M98 is more than a rifle, it is an heirloom, offering hunters a lasting connection to heritage and a timeless expression of luxury.