What is the best airline to use, and which city do I fly into?
Either use Air New Zealand or Qantas Airlines. You fly into Auckland International Airport and transfer to the domestic terminal then board your flight to Queenstown, a small tourist resort in Central Otago, there you will be greeted by your guides.

Are helicopters used for all alpine hunts?
Access to probably the best Thar hunting in the world is by 4x4 vehicle. Helicopters are only occasionally used to reach the hunting grounds in very remote areas, and is only recommended for people in top physical shape.

Do you have other activities for my wife and family to enjoy?
Yes we have a full range of Guides who can take your Wife and Children on there own adventure while Dad' securing his great trophy. Enjoy jet-boating, rafting, bungy-jumping, wildlife tours, shopping, markets, golfing, lake cruises or just sit down and relish the magnificent scenery.

Can I bring my rifle into New Zealand?
Yes there is no problem bring conventional firearms into New Zealand. A permit is required and costs around $25. Pack your rifle and ammunition separately and report to the Airport Police upon your arrival. We will forward all documentation prior to your departure from your home country.

What weather patterns can I expect when I visit?
When it is summer in the Northern Hemisphere it is winter here in New Zealand. You should expect wind, rain and even snow, so please come prepared with warm good quality outdoor clothing. In our summer you can expect long hot summer days where light clothing is recommended. But can become cold nearer evening. We will supply you a full list of clothing and equipment to bring.

What special licenses do I need?
No special licenses are required when you visit to hunt big game in New Zealand. However a fishing license and game bird license is required in season. We will obtain all of these for you, and the cost is included in your package.

How fit do I need to be to secure a world class trophy stag?
Rivers & Ranges New Zealand cater for all levels of fitness and age, that's why we personally tailor your hunt to suit your needs and requirements. However the more physical you are the more of New Zealand's beautiful scenery you will experience and enjoy.

What is your success rate when hunting for Red stags?
We continually operate on a 100% success rate for all of our hunts.
We guarantee a trophy animal on all of our safaris.

Do you have rifles and equipment that my party and I can use?
Yes Rivers & Ranges New Zealand have all the equipment and supplies that you need to make your safari a most enjoyable and successful one. We have a range of firearms and fishing equipment for all species.

How do I bring my trophies back with me?
We work closely with New Zealand's top taxidermists who can mount your trophies and forward them to your home upon completion. However if you prefer to have your trophies mounted back home, we can pack and send them straight to your taxidermist of choice. The cost for this service is approximately $150.

I only have a short time to hunt a Red stag, how much time do I require?
We will be able to secure you a great Red Stag in one or two days. However please try to give us as much notice as practical to ensure our guides have an opportunity to locate one for you prior to your arrival.

What SCI scoring is a Super Gold stag?
The scorings are:

• Bronze medal stag 260-290 SCI,
• Silver medal stag 290-330 SCI,
• Gold medal stag 330-350 SCI,
• Super Gold medal stag I 350-365 SCI,
• Super Gold medal stag II 356-380 SCI,
• Super Gold medal stag III 380-400 SCI,
• Platinum medal stag 400-420 SCI+.

Are hand guns legal for hunting in New Zealand?
No unfortunately not, only rifles are permitted for all hunting in New Zealand. We do however have pistol clubs, and we can arrange a shooting session for you to enjoy between hunts.

What is your most popular combo hunt and how much time should I allow?
We find our most popular combo is the Thar, Chamois and Red stag combo that we offer. You will need to allow yourself eight to ten days to secure all three trophies. However we find on many occasions a hunter just can't resist adding a Fallow Buck or Wapiti Bull to their package!

How many Red stags am I likely to see on one given day
The Red stag hunt takes place on our private ranch in the south of the South Island where you are likely to see numerous free roaming quality trophies each day.

Are your Chamois hunted at the same location as your Thar?
No, we hunt on a private property exclusive to us. Often hunters prefer to access this area by helicopter which is all part of the package and a great experience.

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