Our Journal

The hunting of deer for sport and their prized trophy heads was the initial motivation for importing and releasing deer in New Zealand by the early colonial settlers from the United Kingdom. Between 1861 and 1919, more than 250 were brought to New Zealand directly from the UK or via Australia. This continued until 1926 with the majority coming from the great English Parks and from the Scottish Highlands.‍Of all the deer species (Cervidae family) introduced, red deer (Cervus elaphus) proved to be the most successful at assimilating into their new found environment of New Zealand. 

Venator is the global outfitter of choice for hunting world class red stags. Offering locations across New Zealand, Spain, and North America, Venator offers unrivalled hunting experiences and luxurious accommodations that have to be experienced to be believed.

While hunting the finest red stags in the world is why you may have heard of Venator or have hunted with us, it is Venator's location and ease of access to 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. From action and adventure to relaxation and rejuvenation, Venator's New Zealand location is the ultimate base to experience the best of "Down Under' before, during and after your hunt.

Venator, the ultimate hunting destination where adventure and luxury meet. Located in the Southern Lakes, arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful region, Venator offers a unique hunting experience unlike any other. You'll have the opportunity to hunt the King’s Animal in a breathtakingly beautiful landscape, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear lakes across two private hunting areas spanning over 15,000 acres.

Home to some of the world's most coveted species of game animals, Venator is the global outfitter of choice to hunt world class red stags frequently scoring over 700+ SCI points as well as giant elk, fallow deer, himalayan tahr, european chamois, Arapawa ram and goat.

Home to numerous Safari Club International (SCI) World Records, Venator's red stags are renowned for frequently measuring in excess 700+ SCI points with scores of 950+ known to be recorded. 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.

Brian Bailey, a renowned hunter from Texas achieved this incredible feat taking four red giants that are Safari Club International (SCI) world records* (pending official ratification) in four different categories. Bailey achieved this impressive harvest using a rifle, muzzleloader, bow, and crossbow, respectively, setting undoubtedly what will become a challenging record to surpass for years to come.