Arapawa sheep and feral goat hunts are a rewarding addition
to any New Zealand big-game adventure. They are also an ideal introduction for younger or first-time hunters, offering an
accessible and memorable trophy experience.
Distinctive heritage
Both Arapawa rams and feral goats carry a unique history in New Zealand. In the early 1800s, whalers, among the first European settlers, introduced Arapawa sheep and goats to the islands.
The Arapawa rams are easily recognized by their dark brown or black coats and striking spiral horns, while feral goats, curious and resilient by nature, have flourished in the rugged backcountry.
A hunter’s challenge
These hunts provide more than just an entry point; they deliver a sporting challenge in their own right. The quick reflexes of feral goats make them a popular pursuit for bowhunters, while the bold, sharp-horned Arapawa rams demand skill and patience to outwit in open terrain.
Feral Goat and Arapawa sheep hunting reward sportsmen and women with distinctive trophies and the satisfaction of testing their ability against wary and agile game.
A perfect addition
At Venator, we offer ram and goat hunting as an additional pursuit to complement your red stag hunt.
They are also an excellent target species for new or younger hunters in the family, providing a fun and rewarding experience in the field while adding variety to your time in New Zealand.
Ram and goat hunting gallery
5-star luxury hunting lodges
Our lodges set the standard for comfort, character, and thoughtful detail. Designed with the modern sportsman in mind, every property features purpose-built gun and gear rooms to streamline logistics and maximize convenience before and after the hunt.
They’re the perfect place to unwind and celebrate a successful hunt.
A symphony
of flavours
At Venator, we celebrate the incomparable quality of New Zealand’s ingredients by artfully blending the finest produce with distinctive tastes and the fruits of the hunt. Our menus are carefully curated by our in-house chefs, ensuring every meal is transformed into a delectable culinary adventure.
Tailored to perfection
Every aspect of your journey is curated with precision, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience without a care. From detailed packing guides to curated gun libraries and travel support, we offer an extensive range of pre-trip resources to ensure our clients arrive prepared and confident.
Every detail is designed to make your experience smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable.
“At Venator, we know the strength of our brand lies not only in the trophies we deliver, but also in the trusted partnerships we maintain. From the world’s finest gunmakers to leading hunting associations, these brands reflect our commitment to quality and enable us to deliver exceptional experiences for our clients.”
Frequently asked questions
Please see below for frequently asked questions about hunting Arapawa rams and goats in New Zealand.
Arapawa sheep and feral goat hunts offer high engagement and frequent spotting opportunities without the extreme physical demands or long periods of waiting often associated with larger alpine game. Because these animals herd together and occupy more accessible terrain, new hunters can practice essential fieldcraft (such as glassing, stalking, and shot placement) in a setting that builds confidence and delivers a highly rewarding experience.
A trophy ram is best recognised by its massive, heavily ridged horns that grow backward before curling downward and flaring outwards in a dramatic, wide-sweeping spiral. Built for rugged terrain, these medium-sized, light-boned animals sport a dense, fine wool fleece ranging in color from deep chocolate brown and reddish-tan to bold piebald patches. Their heads feature a lean, wild profile typically marked by a dark face accented with sharp white badger-like facial stripes, eye patches, or a white topknot, giving them a fierce and unmistakable wilderness appearance.
A ram and a sheep are the same animal, however, a ram is simply an adult, uncastrated male sheep.
Yes. Goat hunting in New Zealand is an exciting, affordable and fun add-on to any big game hunting trip.
Yes, Arapawa ram hunting in New Zealand is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to extend their hunt with a unique challenge, as well as a great option for first-time or younger hunters.
Book now for the
hunt of a lifetime
