Venator - Home of the Red Giants

February 16, 2023

Venator’s New Zealand location is an internationally renowned hunting destination for red stags

Located in the heart of the beautiful Cardrona Valley in the South Island of New Zealand it's no secret that the hunting opportunities of this region are some of the best in the world.

Venator Cardrona Safaris Cardrona Valley New Zealand hunting guide
A Venator guide

Home to numerous Safari Club International (SCI) World Records, Venator's red stags are renowned for frequently measuring over 700+ SCI points to well over 950+. Safari Club International, the the organization that records and recognizes big game animals taken by hunters around the world scores animals on the size, symmetry and overall quality of the stag's antlers.


At Venator, hunters have the opportunity to pursue one of the most prized big game animals in the world - the red stag which is also referred to as ‘The King’s Animal’ due to originating in the United Kingdom.

Cervus elaphus (Red Deer) game animal Venator New Zealand
These majestic creatures are known for their impressive size and strength, they were first introduced to New Zealand in 1851

Introduced to New Zealand by early English settlers along with other game species, these majestic creatures are known for their size and strength. The first red deer (Cervus elaphus) to reach New Zealand were a pair sent by Lord Petre in 1851 from his herd at Thorndon Park, Essex, to the South Island. The hind was shot before they had the chance to breed. Another stag and two hinds were introduced in 1861 near Nelson. From there, red deer quickly spread throughout New Zealand.

What sets Venator Cardrona Safaris apart from other outfitters is the consistently high quality of the red stags that are harvested. It's not uncommon for hunters to take red stags scoring in excess of 700 SCI points, which is considered a world-class trophy. To put this in perspective, the average red stag harvested in New Zealand scores around 350-400 SCI points.

Red Stag Trophy 600+ SCI Venator New Zealand
Trophies of a lifetime await

A stag that scores over 600 SCI points is considered a true trophy animal, while a stag that scores over 700 SCI points is in a league of its own. The 2023 New Zealand hunting season has already produced four pending world SCI records ranging from 800 SCI points to well over 950 SCI points in what is becoming known as “The Kings’ Slam”. 


So how does Venator Cardrona Safaris consistently produce such high-quality trophy animals? It all comes down to careful management and conservation practices. The team at Venator Cardrona Safaris work tirelessly to maintain a healthy population of red stags across their exclusive hunting areas spanning over 15,000 acres while carefully managing the herd size and monitoring the health and well-being of the animals.

Red Stag Trophy 700 SCI Venator New Zealand
Venator - home of the Red Giants


In addition to their commitment to conservation, the team at Venator Cardrona Safaris is also dedicated to providing an exceptional hunting experience for their guests. They offer a range of hunting packages with the opportunity to hunt not only Red Stag but also world class Elk, fallow deer, Himalayan Tahr, European Chamois, Arapaho Ram, goat, waterfowl as well as fly fishing.

Whatever your level of experience or hunting goals, Venator Cardrona Safaris is the ultimate New Zealand outfitter and hunting destination for those looking to pursue a world-class trophy red stag. 

“This has been a hunt of a lifetime. You guys are the best outfitter I’ve hunted with, and I’ll come back anytime you’ll have me.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for frequently asked questions about hunting red deer in New Zealand

What’s included in my USA hunting trip package?

Our packages are all inclusive and typically 5-days/6-nights – with 5 full days of hunting! We pick can pick you up directly from the Queenstown airport, or if you like to arrive earlier we can assist with hotel bookings in Queenstown.

Includes: luxury lodge accommodations, roundtrip Queenstown transfer, daily guide rates, private chef crafted cuisine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, field preparation of trophies, on-site hostess, Wi-Fi throughout the lodge, daily room servicing & laundry and of course trophy fees as booked and listed on invoice.

Additional trophies, upgrades and curated experiences may easily be added during your stay.

What success rate can I expect on my Red Deer hunting trip with Venator?

100% on antlered game, 100% shot opportunity on rifle Elk and red deer with success rates virtually identical.

What’s NOT included in my New Zealand hunting trip package?

Airfare, taxidermy, crating/shipping trophies, trophy upgrades, additional trophies, gratuities, NZ travel visa, curated non-hunting experiences, spa, items of personal nature, firearm import fee and of course additional tours/lodging pre or post hunt.

When is the New Zealand hunting season?

Click to view our New Zealand hunting season chart.

Our main hunting season is from late February-August with most deer species rutting late March-end April.

Velvet red stags make for a great November/December/January hunt and warm Southern Hemisphere Christmas vacation.

Tahr and chamois winter coats start late April-September.

Main waterfowl season is May-July.

What physical shape do I need to be in for my New Zealand hunting trip?

We highly recommend you be in the best shape possible for your age and physical limitations to have best hunting experience. Don’t be concerned if you have any physical or health issues, our guides are well trained and considerate.

They will modify your hunt to suit your ability. We have worked with all fitness levels including wheelchair hunters; plus, our luxury lodge is handicap accessible.

All the same, if you can spare the time, some extra activities like walking, biking or gym work out will pay off.

What is the average shot distance on my New Zealand hunting trip?

Rifle shot range is 100–300 on average.

Long distance shooters can stretch out much further if they prefer.

Archery ranges out to 60-yards for antlered game.

Do you take bow hunters on New Zealand hunting trips?

Yes, we host a number of archery hunters every season and our clients enjoy great success rates on all of our species.

Our predominate method is spot and stalk with shot opportunities ranging out to 60-yards.

Are there any snakes I need to look out for on my New Zealand hunting trip?

There are no snakes, predators or venomous creatures on our New Zealand hunting trips.

Is there a license fee for my New Zealand hunting trip?

No, our packages are all-inclusive plus New Zealand does not operate on a licensing or tag system.

What kind of vehicles do we use access hunting areas?

Antlered game we access our big steep country using UTV’s (Kawasaki Mule). From key vantage points we scout letting our eyes do the walking. Once target is found we spot and stalk hunt.

Tahr and chamois we use helicopters to access remote alpine habitat. You’ll experience a purely New Zealand hunting culture and adrenaline rush in breathtaking terrain.

For the hard-core foot only mountain hunter, contact us for specific Tahr and chamois information.

What gear should I pack for my New Zealand hunting trip?

We are hunting gear junkies and have tried lots of gear, our short, detailed gear list will be supplied upon booking.

If you plan on even the possibility of hunting Tahr and/or Chamois additional warm weather gear will be needed.

Daily laundry is included in daily rates.

Do I need a waterproof coat for my New Zealand hunting trip?

Yes, Good quality waterproof coat is essential gear as it can snow and rain any time of year. We will supply a complete gear list upon booking.

Do I need to wear camo clothing for my New Zealand hunting trip?

This varies by your home country and hunting traditions.

American’s traditionally have excellent camo that works well afield.

Wear what you feel most comfortable in, we will hunt hard and play the wind.

Archery hunters stalking in close, quiet camo is an excellent idea.

Some of our favorite camo patterns include Pnuma, Kuiu, Forloh

What kind of hunting boots do you recommend for my New Zealand hunting trip?

Footwear can be a highly personal choice; we’ve had great experiences with Crispi, Meindl, Scarpa, Lowa, Lathrop & Sons.

Whichever you chose, make sure they are well broken in.

Travel hint: Very clean boots clear NZ customs quicker as immigrations officers work to protect our environment from possible threats.

Will I need a spotting scope for my New Zealand hunting trip?

No, our guides all carry Swarovski spotting scopes, and rangefinders.

You of course may bring your own if you prefer.

Binoculars will be on the gear list, we recommend 10x binoculars.

What shall I do with my time if I tag out early?

We are located in New Zealand’s #1 tourist region. There are literally unlimited options based on what you like, and our onsite hostess will be happy to organize. Our luxury lodge is also very comfortable to simply kick back and relax, we include free Wi-Fi.

Since New Zealand is not on a tag or permit system, many hunters choose to hunt additional species.

Can my New Zealand hunting trip be documented on video and/or photographed?

Yes, very popular.

Check out some of the videos on our YouTube channel: Venator Cardrona Safaris.

We will need prior notification to book videographer talent.

Additional rates apply based on what you want.

Photo editing and video production will be completed and delivered post hunt.

What happens if I wound an animal during my New Zealand hunting trip?

We will do everything possible to locate and recover game. However, in the unlikely event an animal is wounded and not recovered the full trophy fee is due. Hunters may continue to hunt on trophy fee basis.

How is my trophy taken care of?

Game is typically skinned and quartered in the field. Meat, capes and antlers/horns are then transported to our off-site cooler.

And of course, game is skinned based on your instructions for taxidermy.

What happens to the meat from my New Zealand hunting trip?

Our private chef will prepare gourmet game cuisine throughout your stay. The remaining venison will be used by various sources.

Can I take my meat home after my New Zealand hunting trip?

Taking meat home from New Zealand can be difficult and very expensive. It is possible.

Rest assured no meat goes to waste and our private chef prepares game meat for you to try during your stay.

How big is my hunting area?

We hunt two large exclusive preserves, totaling in excess of 15,000 acres of excellent diverse habitat, that’s 23+ square miles (60+ square kilometers) of private hunting. Our hunting preserves consist of undulating back country, covered in native vegetation. There’s excellent cover and plenty of draws and gullies.

Tahr and Chamois are hunted on both private & public land.

We’re located in prime country, no lodge changes, long transfers or overnights required.

What are your New Zealand hunting trip rates?
What are your terms and conditions?
Are translators available for my New Zealand hunting trip?

Being that we are located in the tourism mecca of New Zealand we can find people that speak all languages if needed. We also have agents and Venator employees in numerous locations around the world.

When is the best time to hunt for Red Stag trophies in New Zealand?

Hunting is very solid February straight through to August.

Best time can vary greatly depending on hunter’s desire, non-hunting activities, and simply when they can break away for hunt.

Early season pre-roar is fantastic hunting with thickest cover bow hunters like. Roar season heats up late March to late April and reserved for when we hunt our biggest stags.

May onward is best time to add in Tahr and Chamois in winter coats without sacrificing red stag hunting experience.

Can I hunt a velvet stag during my New Zealand hunting trip?

Velvet red stags make for a great November/December/January hunt and warm Southern Hemisphere Christmas vacation. Coincides with the ultimate dry fly-fishing experience.

What is the difference between Red Deer and Red Stag?

They are the same species. Term stag or deer really comes down to where you’re from and cultural terminology.

What if my Red Stag trophy is bigger than what I booked?

We have experienced hunting guides who are experts in field-judging game.

If trophy is larger than guide judges, that’s on us.

If the guide judges a trophy and it is larger than class you booked and you decide to shoot, that’s on you.

Hunters can upgrade in the field if they find a trophy, they want which is larger than booked.

Is Red Stag meat good to eat?

Very flavorful, our exclusive private chef will prepare a variety of cuisine from Red Stag, Elk/Wapiti, Tahr, Fallow Deer and Chamois.

Do Red Stag have ivory teeth?

Yes, red deer have a pair of ivory teeth similar to elk used to vocalize their mating call.

Do I need to hunt the roar in New Zealand?

No, Hunting is strong with equal success the entire season!

What is the world record Red Stag trophy?

Safari Club International book of records lists an 826 2/8” stag as the world record. It was hunted here with us. Click link to watch this video on YouTube

What noise does a Red Stag make?

Red stag roar is the sound made during the rutting season, this bellow is most commonly compared to a lion’s roar.

When is the elk bugle in New Zealand?

The elk bugle coincides with the red stag roar, end March – late April

Where did the elk come from in New Zealand?

In 1909 Rocky Mountain elk were introduced courtesy of President Roosevelt.

What is the New Zealand elk trophy record?

Safari Club International book of records

Wapiti Typical category lists a 472 2/8” bull as world record. It was hunted here with us.

Wapiti Non-typical category lists a 591 5/8” bull as world record.

How big is an elk in New Zealand?

Rocky Mountain Elk is the largest big-game species in New Zealand with mature bulls sporting antlers 300 – 500+ SCI.

When do fallow deer rut in New Zealand?

Fallow deer rut later than red stag in New Zealand. Typically, mid-April through mid-May.

Where are New Zealand fallow deer from?

Fallow deer were introduced in New Zealand from Europe.

What colors do fallow deer come in in New Zealand?

Fallow deer come in a variety of colors with the most common being light brown with white spots, chocolate brown, white and occasionally black.

Do fallow deer have Adam’s Apple?

Yes, unique to fallow deer the Adam’s Apple or larynx is prominent.

Are you in Tahr country?

Yes, we’re located in prime country, no lodge changes, long transfers or overnights required

How do you hunt Tahr in New Zealand?

We typically conduct helicopter assisted hunts, but also a portion of our clients wish to do foot hunts.

It allows quick access to rugged remote Tahr country.

We are located in prime country and can lift off directly from our luxury lodge for the hunt.

Tahr can be hunted in a variety of ways: by foot, spike camp or helicopter assisted.

Foot hunts are very physically demanding.

Can I bow hunt Tahr in New Zealand?

Yes, specialty hunt. Contact us to discuss.

Can I add a Tahr onto my Red Stag hunt while in New Zealand?

Yes, very popular add on trophy.

It’s best to decide at beginning of hunt as weather patterns will dictate best day(s) to hunt Tahr in the Southern Alps

When is Tahr in long hair in New Zealand?

Winter hair is best May through August

Can I shoot a female Tahr for taxidermy dioramas in New Zealand?

Yes, female Tahr have small horn and make fantastic additions to taxidermy dioramas and trophy rooms. Female Tahr lack the long hair of the bull Tahr.

Can I hunt a black chamois for my New Zealand hunting trip?

Winter hair is best May through August, and we will hunt mature dark chamois

How much does it cost to hunt European Chamois in New Zealand?
Do I need a helicopter to hunt European Chamois in New Zealand?

New Zealand Chamois have a reputation for being an elusive trophy and helicopters make access to their alpine home more time efficient.

We suggest the use of a helicopter to access our higher hunting areas in the Southern Alps.

Foot hunts are very physically demanding.

What is the difference between European Chamois male and female horns?

Both chamois sexes have short black horns.

Male chamois bucks are typically much heavier and pronounced hook.

Female chamois typically less mass, longer and may have less of a hook.

Can my observer go with me during my European Chamois hunt in New Zealand?

Yes, Exciting adrenaline adventure and the landscape you’ll hunt them in is simply spectacular.

Is there a transfer to hunt chamois in New Zealand?

No, we’re located in prime country, no lodge changes, long transfers or overnights required.

Do you have possum and wallaby hunting in New Zealand?

Yes we have possum but not in large numbers. Wallabies are a 2.5-3 hour drive from our lodge.

When is waterfowl season in New Zealand?

May through June

What species of waterfowl do you hunt in New Zealand?
  • Paradise ducks
  • Black Swans
  • Mallard ducks
  • Grey ducks
  • Shoveler ducks
  • and Canada goose
Can I export birds that I hunt in New Zealand?

Yes, depending upon country of import regulations. Birds may require taxidermy to be completed in New Zealand

Do you have Arapawa sheep for hunting in New Zealand?

Yes, a New Zealand classic. Ideal big-game trophy to extend your hunting, youth hunters or those on their first hunt.

Do you have feral goats for hunting in New Zealand?

Yes, great affordable big-game trophy addition to your New Zealand big-game adventure.

Where in New Zealand in the hunting lodge located?

We are located in Wanaka on the South Island of New Zealand.

New Zealand’s #1 tourist area

Click here to learn more.

What are the local attractions?

There is a host of unique activities right on our doorstep, you will be spoilt for choice during your stay. Click here to learn more.

Is there shopping near to the hunting accommodation?

Yes, Shopping in the nearby quaint resort town of Wanaka is less than 10-minutes away. Wanaka is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka and makes for a wonderful day out.

Is there a spa near to the hunting accommodation?

Yes, our onsite hostess will organize spa, massage and facials to suit your individual requirements in nearby Wanaka

What non-hunting activities do you offer?

Pure New Zealand activities include:

  • jet boat
  • race car-motorsport park
  • bungy jump
  • distillery tours
  • wine tastings
  • historic cheese mill tours
  • spas
  • trekking
  • flight seeing
  • sunrise balloon
  • mountain top lunch
  • hot pools
  • golfing
  • Mount Cook scenic flights
  • Milford Sound
  • cycling trails
  • Lake Wanaka
  • skilling
  • snowboarding
  • shopping
  • famous Fergburger
  • Arrowtown art galleries
  • and cultural tours to name a few.
Who can help me arrange my non-hunting activities?

Our dedicated onsite hostess will curate all your experiences to make the most of your time in the adventure capital of New Zealand.

How much do non-hunting activities cost?
Do I need to pre-book my non-hunting activities?

No, typically we set up activities when you arrive and take into account weather when booking dates.

What can you tell me about Cardrona Terraces Lodge?

Less than a 10-minute drive from Wanaka town centre lies Cardrona Terraces, an exquisite 700sqm (7,535 sqft) luxury sportsmans lodge.

Designed with the travelling sportsman in mind you will find a dedicated hunters room, with gun display, changing lockers, and drying room. Every room is ensuited with either private balcony, or access on to the courtyard, multiple bars and relaxation areas and heated pool.

Positioned on 42 acres (17 hectares) of land, Cardona Terraces benefits from ultimate privacy within tranquil surrounds.

Watch our Video Tour of our Luxury Hunting Lodge.

What are amenities at the hunting lodge?

Amenities include heated swimming pool, Wi-Fi, patio/deck/terrace, outdoor seating, bar, lounge, coffee machine, elevator, SkyTV, outdoor cooking, Indoor and outdoor fires, library, laundry facilities, firearm storage, wheelchair access and stunning mountain views!

What’s included with my stay at the Cardrona Terraces hunting lodge?

Use of all property facilities, welcome drink upon arrival, onsite chef, onsite hostess, full breakfast, lunch (either at lodge or packed picnic), nightly pre dinner drinks and canapes, nightly four course gourmet dinner with paired wines, extensive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, daily room servicing, Wi-Fi throughout the lodge.

Do you provide free Wi-Fi at the hunting lodge?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is included throughout the lodge at no cost.

Is the hunting lodge kid friendly?

Yes, we are family friendly.

However, is you require child day care this needs to be organized pre-trip. Additional rates will apply from childcare provider.

Can I try venison while staying at the hunting lodge?

Yes, our private chef prepares game meat for you to try during your stay. It’s all delicious!

Is alcohol included at my stay in the hunting lodge?

Yes, Alongside the world’s top brands, we serve the finest New Zealand beverages including locally sourced whiskey, spirits and wine.

What is the maximum occupancy for the hunting lodge?

Sleeping up to 12 guests, the six king size bedrooms all split into twin beds, providing full flexibility based on your group requirements. Each bedroom also comes with a full en-suite bathroom.

Can you cater for food allergies for meals at the hunting lodge?

Upon booking we will send you a form to fill out which includes food likes/dislikes.

Who takes care of non-hunting observers during my New Zealand hunting trip?

Our onsite hostess will assist the non-hunters. Let us curate your dream, with a host of unique activities right on our doorstep, you will be spoilt for choice during your stay.

How do we travel to non-hunting activities from the hunting lodge?

Depending upon activity selected, hostess will organize transportation accordingly.

What’s involved with bringing firearms into New Zealand for my hunting trip?

It is very easy unlike many other countries to bring a firearm as well as ammunition into New Zealand.

You will need to fill out the permit and submit to New Zealand police prior to your arrival.

Should you wish to bring your personal firearm to New Zealand we will assist you.

What firearms do you have for me to use during my New Zealand hunting trip?

We have a selection of high-end firearms for you to use free of charge.

Firearm brands include:

  • Blaser
  • Browning
  • Tika
  • Sako
  • Winchester
  • Sauer
  • Best of the West (BOTW)

And topped with fine optics from Leupold, Swarovski and Leica.

What caliber do you recommend for my New Zealand hunting trip?

We recommend calibres between .270 to .300WinMag

Can I tour New Zealand pre/post hunt with my firearm?

If you plan to tour before or after your hunt it is best to plan on using one of the lodges rifles, this makes your touring a lot more hassle free.

What does a New Zealand firearm permit cost?

NZ$25 payable to police upon clearing firearm upon arrival.

Travel tip: Get your 25NZ at your international departure airport, this will save a step, time and line upon arrival in New Zealand.

https://www.police.govt.nz/advice-services/firearms-and-safety/licences-permits-and-endorsements/visitor-firearms-licence-and

Can I visit Australia before or after my New Zealand hunting trip with my firearm?

If you plan on touring (not hunting) Australia on same trip, you can’t take a firearm.

How does the international date line affect my travel?

When flying west you will lose a day as you fly across International Date Line.

i.e.: Departing USA on a Friday, you’ll land in New Zealand on a Sunday.

On your return trip flying east, you will now gain a day as you fly across International Date Line.

i.e.: Departing New Zealand on a Friday, you’ll land in USA on Friday.

Where do we meet the Venator team in New Zealand?

We meet and greet in Queenstown. We can either pick you up straight from the airport, or assist you with hotel arrangements in Queenstown if you wish to arrive 1-2 days before your hunt starts. Scenic ground transfer through scenic mountain pass is just under an hour’s drive to your home away from home.

Do I need to arrange a hotel before my New Zealand hunting trip starts?

We are able to pick you up directly from the airport. Some clients like to arrive in Queenstown or Auckland 1-2 days before the start of their hunt to relax and adjust to the time zone. This is entirely up to the individual.

Is a COVID vaccinations required before arriving in New Zealand for my hunting trip?

With borders re-opened and no vaccine requirement to enter New Zealand, we are excited to welcome you back to Sportsman's Paradise for the 2023 hunting season and beyond.

Do I need a passport and visa to visit New Zealand for my hunting trip?

New Zealand requires at least one unstamped passport page, and at least three months of validity remaining beyond the traveler’s planned date of departure.

New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) will be required for US & Canadian travelers arriving in New Zealand on or after October 1, 2019. The NZeTA must be granted in advance of arrival. Visitors may apply online at the website below, or for a reduced fee using the app (available for android and apple devices). In addition you may also have to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

The NZeTA cost is NZD$9 on the app or NZD$12 on the website. IVL costs are $35 per person additional, and charged along with the eTA.

New Zealand Immigration website

Do I need an electric converter for my devices?

We are on 240v, with a 2-3 pin plug. Most modern electronics now will handle both 110 and 240v, just look at the plug and it should say.

ll you will need is to use your electronics here is a plug converter which you can get at online or at airports.

Travel tip: purchase one converter and pack a power strip from home to charge all your electronics.

What is the climate and air temperature like when I come for my New Zealand hunting trip?

With the weather notoriously unpredictable it’s said that New Zealand can have four seasons in one day. As it can snow and rain any time of year it’s important you bring quality waterproof clothing that’s warm and well fitting.

  • February and March: Summer with temperatures between 40-80° F (5-25°C)
  • April and May: Autumn with temperatures between 32-65° F (0-20°C)
  • June and July: Winter with temperatures between 20-60° F (-5-15°C)
What is the likelihood of rain during my New Zealand hunting trip?

Plan on rain or snow at least one day.

Do you recommend travel/medical insurance for my New Zealand hunting trip?

Yes, we recommend Ripcord Rescue Travel Protection’s comprehensive travel protection plan

Can you help me plan extra days so that I can spend more time in New Zealand?

Most visitors it seems spend additional time touring beautiful New Zealand. This is easy to do, however our lodge is filled with the next group of hunters. We are happy to make recommendations and arrangements based on your interests.

Can you help with flights for my New Zealand hunting trip?

We can recommend qualified travel agencies to assist our guests.

If you book flights on your own, please let us review prior to booking. The international date line can easily goof up plans.

Can I take my trophies with me after my New Zealand Hunting Trip?

No, Export documents and final trophy care won’t be complete till post hunt.

How long does it take to get my trophies home from New Zealand?

It takes approximately 90-days for your trophies to arrive at your nearest designated port of entry. When you hunt with us, you’ll need to bring your taxidermist information with you so we can process your paperwork for export of your trophies after your hunt.

Who handles export documents and shipping when sending my hunting trophies home from New Zealand?

We deliver your trophies to our third-party supplier who completes trophy prep, crating, documents and coordinates directly with you for payments and delivery information.

Can I take my meat home after my New Zealand Hunting Trip?

Taking meat home from New Zealand can be difficult and very expensive. It is possible.

Rest assured no meat goes to waste and our private chef prepares game meat for you to try during your stay.