new zealand duck hunting.jpg The natural habitat for upland game birds and waterfowl is spectacular. In addition to duck species popularly hunted in the United States are indigenous species that top avid bird hunters' lists, plus unique wingshooting opportunities that probably should.

Endemic duck species prized by collectors include Paradise Shelducks (Tadorna variegate), Pacific Black Ducks (Anas superciliosa), Australian Shovelers (Anas rhynchotis). Mallards and Canada Geese have thrived since introduction, as have Black Swans (Cygnus atratus), since self-introduction from Australia, and comprise the bulk of the New Zealand waterfowl hunting bag.

new zealand 005.jpg New Zealand waterfowl hunting is defined best as high-quality waterfowling than as high-volume wingshooting more common in South America. Waterfowl are plentiful, and daily bags generally exceed the lawful take of ducks in the United States, but New Zealand duck hunting is about decoying exoctic species in the most enchanting scenery imaginable. Fifteen to 30 waterfowl are a reasonable expectation, with upland bird, trout fishing or big game hunting for red stag, Himalayan Tahr and Chamois other available sporting options.

Duck hunting in New Zealand is usually from comfortable maimais (blinds) either on land or water, with usually 2 hunters per. Baiting is legal, though not always necessary because waterfowl remain unpressured by hunting, and guns may be unplugged. New Zealand duck hunting season runs May through July and coincides with prime hunting for many big game species. You may bring your own shotgun, but a selection of semi-automatic Berettas are included in duck hunting packages.

Upland bird hunting in New Zealand rounds out wingshooting programs perfectly and there's plenty from which to choose. Puekekos (Porphyrio melanotus), sometimes called blue pheasants, are native species that dwell along wetland margins and prized for the collector value. Other upland bird hunting opportunities include ring-neck pheasants, as well as hunting for the world's largest pheasant - wild peacocks - are hunted over pointers and walk-ups. California quail most common of the introduced upland game birds and are found in both islands in coveys of usually between 10 and 100 birds, with covies of up to 400 having been reported.

Merriam's Wild Turkeys are abundant, especially on North Island. They may be hunted throughout the year, with a generous outfitter-imposed limits of 3 gobblers daily. During the fall and winter months, February through August, effective turkey hunting methods in Kiwi Land consist of still hunting or busting large flocks and calling them back in. During the spring months August through December, however, spring turkey hunters marvel at the abundance of mature gobblers with no hunter competition. Spring turkey hunting in New Zealand pairs well with trout fishing.

Timing

New Zealand Duck Hunting is available early-May through June (North Island) and into July (South Island). Upland game bird hunting runs concurrently. Turkey hunting remains available throughought the entire year, as is trout fishing. During the New Zealand Waterfowl Hunting season, hunting for trophy Red Stag, Tahr and Chamois may be enjoyed. Please consult the GetDucks.com New Zealand Hunting Calendar to best consider the perfect New Zealand hunting trip.

Rates

NORTH ISLAND

$500 Daily New Zealand Duck Hunting to include turkey and upland bird hunting. Non-hunters $250.

Big Game Hunting Trophy fees:

Free Range Hunts - Red stag $3000, Fallow buck $2500, Sika $5000, Bull Tahr $3500, Chamois $2500
Game Ranch Hunts - Red Stag up to 320 $3000, Fallow buck $2500, Sika $5000, Rusa $5000, Bull Tahr $3500, Chamois $2500

North Island New Zealand Waterfowl Hunting Packages include: airport transfers (Palmerston North Regional Airport), homestead accommodations during the hunt, all meals and beverages, fully-guided hunting, and trophy care in the field.

SOUTH ISLAND

6 Night/5 Day New Zealand Duck Hunting Package $3195 per hunter with a minimum/maximum of 4 Hunters.

Accompanied Non-hunting/Ladies Package 6 nights/5 days relaxing, exploring and sightseeing $1950

South Island New Zealand Hunting Package includes: airport transfers, all accommodations, meals, beer and house wine, and hunting license for hunters, along with train trips, whale watch charters and spa treatments for non-hunters.

If unable to organize party of 4 let us know, we may have others in the same position that you can join.

Accommodations

Immersed in beautiful New Zealand settings, lodging on North and South islands provides the perfect back-drop for New Zealand hunting trips. Excellent regional foods and wines, personalized service, complement the experience for perfection.

NORTH ISLAND

For groups, especially with non hunters along, accommodation will be in the homestead lodge on the Tasman Sea. This is a large-style villa with 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and large lounge with open fire, dining room and kitchen. Sundecks look out onto the attractive gardens and tennis court.

Non-hunters can relax at the homestead or explore the property by 4WD. Coastal seal colonies provide great photo opportunities as do amazing coastal landforms like Honeycomb Rock. Forays to town just hour away includes wine trails, visiting abalone and jade jewelry stores, antique shops, local art galleries and a rare native-bird sanctuary that exhibits the Kiwi and Takahe. During a daytrip by train to the capital city of New Zealand, Te Papa, the New Zealand National Museum can be visited, followed by shopping while wandering along picturesque streets near the harbour.

All meals and beverages are included and prepared on the premises. New Zealand food is noted for its freshness and tasty nature. The menu features wild game along with New Zealand beef and lamb, plus fresh coastal seafood. The Wairarapa Coast has abundant seafood, and is right out of the front door. Paua (abalone) and crayfish (lobster) are local delicacies readily obtainable simply by diving with a snorkel. Moki, blue cod and butterfish are excellent local table fare. An excellent variety of local wine is also provided.

SOUTH ISLAND

Luxury lodge accommodations in Hanmer Springs, New Zealand. With large gardens and spectacular panoramic views over the Hanmer Basin, this is the place to be to relax in tranquility and privacy.

Nestled on a plateau overlooking the beautiful mountains, rivers and farmland, the unique lodge offers 5 bedrooms, with either King or Queen beds, private bathroom, large lounge and stone log fire, pool room, computer with Wifi for your use, large outdoor decks, lovely gardens and spectacular views. Private-chef offerings include scrumpous cuisine and local delicacies after a fun day. A truly relaxing and tranquil atmosphere ensures that your next New Zealand vacation is enjoyed in style, privacy, and comfort.

hamner springs spa.jpg Hanmer Springs is one of New Zealand's top tourist destinations. It is situated around famous thermal spa pools where one can sit and soak, or be pampered with a private sauna, massage, facial, manicure or pedicure. For those looking for something more physical there is a beautiful 18-hole golf course, forest trails, horse treks, jet boating, rafting, ATV trails. For the more adventurous New Zealand-originated thrill of bungy jumping. The local Marble Point Winery is open for wine tasting and sales.

Your lodge hostess will arrange an activities program for non-hunter participants. While the others in the party are enjoying the great outdoors, you too can also have an enjoyable day doing whatever appeals. Day options include: a Spa & Beauty package in Hanmer Springs, Lunch & Wine Tour of local vineyards, exploring the beautiful city of Christchurch, whale watching at lovely seaside town of Kaikoura, or TranzAlpine Scenic Train rides through the magnificent Southern Alps.

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