We have had the honor of hosting Ion Tiriac three times over the past few years on big game hunting expeditions across the southern alps of the South Island. Ion is a Romanian businessman, previously Boris Becker's coach, and a former professional tennis and ice hockey player.
Ion was initially introduced to Venator through a friend’s referral after they achieved an unofficial record during a 2013 visit from Austria. Following that impressive accomplishment, Ion’s own journey of exhilarating New Zealand hunts officially began.
Ion first visited New Zealand in 2017, where he joined a group of friends for his initial pursuit for trophy red stags during the roar. It didn’t take long for his competitive nature as a seasoned sportsman to surface. Shortly into the trip, he made his mark on the record books by taking his first unofficial world record red stag contender with an impressive 800+ SCI score.
In the years that followed, Ion returned to hunt New Zealand red stag and pursue further record trophies with Venator:
As Ion advances gracefully into his late 80s, his enthusiasm for the thrill of the hunt remains undiminished.
Ion's frequent returns to hunt with Venator are fueled not only by the allure of pursuing the biggest stags but also by his profound love for New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
Our exceptional combination of world-class hunting, exquisite accommodations, and superb hospitality is why Ion loves Venator and continues to visit from across the world as often as he can.
After years of hunting trips and embarking on shared adventures in New Zealand and across Europe, our connection with Ion has evolved into a cherished friendship, filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
Learn more about the 2024 season, including Ion's trophies, within our New Zealand seasonal report.
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.