While hunting the finest red stags in the world is why you may have heard of Venator or have hunted with us, it is our location and ease of access to mind the awe-inspiring experiences that New Zealand is famous for that are sure to delight anyone looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of this unique corner of the world.
One of the most popular experiences is a scenic helicopter tour, known as the Fiordland Heli Traverse. With experienced pilots and comfortable helicopters, it is the ultimate way to see the outstanding contrast of the lakes, rivers, mountains, glaciers, oceans and fiords from a unique perspective.
The Fiordland Heli Traverse is a full day excursion exploring this famously remote and untouched part of New Zealand. Skilled pilots will get you close to huge waterfalls and give you a bird's eye view the region’s unique wildlife in its otherwise inaccessible natural habitat.
You will hover over glaciers of ancient blue ice and land in the snow at beautiful, isolated mountain lakes to capture photographs and memories you will treasure forever.
You will enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch with a spectacular mountain backdrop and may even have some fresh lobster collected from pots on the West Coast to bring back to the Lodge for dinner.
The Fiordland Heli Traverse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and unquestionably an enduring favorite amongst all our of guests that we highly recommend.
Another popular experience is fly fishing. The rivers and streams around the Upper Clutha Valley are known for their world-class trout fishing. If you would like to enjoy the tranquility of exploring some of the most stunning rivers and lakes of the South Island of New Zealand we are able to organize expert local fly fishing guides to ensure you are in the right location with the right rods and tackle to land one of the trout that this region is famous for.
For those looking for a little more action or adrenaline, you're in the right place. The Southern Lakes region is famously known as the 'adventure capital' of the world. From bungee jumping off the historic Kawarau Bridge to feeling the forces of the world's only commercial jet sprint boat, off road buggies, testing your shooting skills at the ultimate clay bird shooting range, sky diving, the thrill of driving high performance race cars on a race track or taking the passenger seat in a vintage WWII fighter jet, Venator is the ultimate base for not only your hunt, but also your ultimate New Zealand experience during or after your time with us, all of which are sure to get their heart pumping and experience the wild side of New Zealand.
We also offer personal training classes and guided hiking and mountain biking tours arranged to suit your schedule during your time with us.
Here at Venator, we pride ourselves on hand selecting the best experiences to seamlessly fit alongside your hunting schedule so that you can truly 'do it all'.
We can't wait to share the best of this stunning location with you during your time with us.
Keep reading our journal entries.
Brian Bailey hunted with Venator New Zealand to pursue world record Red Stags, aiming to break 1000 SCI. Over four methods of harvest – rifle, bow, crossbow, and muzzle loader – three new record stags were taken. Venator combines ethical hunting, unparalleled experiences, and sustainable practices for unforgettable adventures.
For over three decades, the Fraser family and Venator have defined record Red Stag hunting in New Zealand. From the historic 1991 pursuit guided by Duncan’s uncle to the 2023 Kings Slam, hunters have achieved world-class trophies using rifle, bow, crossbow, and muzzleloader. Our legacy of record-setting hunts reflects skill, heritage, and the pursuit of unforgettable adventures in some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Mark Peterson, founder of the Outdoor Guardian Fund and WTA, joined Venator in pursuit of the New Zealand Game Bird Grand Slam. Guided by our expert team, he completed the rare challenge across diverse landscapes and species, from pheasant to paradise shelduck. His experience reflects Venator’s passion for world-class hunting, conservation, and the pursuit of excellence in every adventure.