new zealand red stag hunt prices

Hunting New Zealand

ABOUT MONARCH

Monarch Pursuits is New Zealand’s leading provider of exclusive experiences, primed for the discerning adventurer.

As the only full concierge outdoor adventure travel company in the country. Monarch provides bespoke, tailored itineraries throughout New Zealand incorporating hunting, fishing, and travel. Every detail is taken care of from the moment your plane touches the tarmac to the moment you depart full of fine wine, food and fantastic hunting experiences. No two Monarch hunting experiences are the same. Each package is carefully curated with you to create incredible experiences–from luxury accommodation, five-star cuisine and superb local wines, to exclusive access to secluded pockets of natural wilderness, accessible only by helicopter. An unparalleled experience, Monarch is the ultimate indulgence, bringing to the forefront the absolute pleasure in the pursuit.

The brainchild of All Black and passionate hunter Luke Romano, Monarch combines Luke’s passion

for hunting, his love of the natural world and his pride in New Zealand. Currently in his tenth season playing for Canterbury’s Super Rugby team, the Crusaders, Luke is as comfortable in the seclusion of the high country as he is on the rugby field and personally attends and helps guides on as many Monarch hunting trips as his professional playing career allows. You will be amazed at how quickly you become friends and part of the family after being welcomed into the genuine warmth and authenticity of Monarch’s Kiwi hospitality.

Monarch caters to all, be it families with varying interests, groups with non hunters, or a collection of buddies hunting world-class Red Stags. Monarch is more than just a hunting trip, it is a feast for the senses.

RED STAG HUNTING

New Zealand is a sub-tropical island paradise abundant with rich vegetation and completely absent of large predators.

Red Stags first appeared in New Zealand in 1851 and since that time Red Deer have flourished into what we have today. Over the years there have been further introductions of improved genetics from England and Germany. Combining these genetics with our perfect growing

conditions it is no surprise that our trophy Red Stags are the best to be found anywhere in the world!

With a live weight of only 350 - 500 pounds the Red Stags of New Zealand grow the largest antlers of any animal in the world for their body size.

Hunting Season

Red Stags can be hunted from February to August with the Rut being March to mid-May. During the Rut the Red Stags ‘Roar’ and challenge each other for dominance. The Rut is an almost primeval time to see these monarchs at their greatest. Aggressive fighting is common between dominant stags and often these great battles result in the loser leaving mortally wounded.

BULL TAHR HUNTING

Himalayan tahr are one of the most sought after alpine trophies in the world and we have worked long and hard to provide the ultimate hunting experience for these amazing animals. Tahr are nimble and fleet of foot and prefer the mountainous rocky steep bluffs to easier terrain below.

Originally from the mountains of the Himalayas they adapted well to the Southern Alps of New Zealand and we now have the best huntable population of Tahr in the World. At Monarch we have the widest range of hunting options available for our hunters based on their personal preferences and capabilities. Our hunting options range

from the most prestigious and famous tahr hunting regions to the wildest and most remote of all tahr hunting areas, the West Coast wilderness.

Our tahr hunts are on foot and for our West Coast wilderness hunts we access our spike camp by helicopter. This allows us to hunt these

magnificent animals in the beauty and serenity of their alpine home, undisturbed by the influences of man. Our guides are very experienced at hunting tahr and over the years we have had a very high success rate harvesting top quality trophies.

Hunting Season

The tahr rut is from May to July and the best time to hunt tahr in their long winter coats is from April through August. The quest for a trophy bull tahr is the highlight of the trip for many of our hunters.

FALLOW, ARAPAWA RAM AND CHAMOIS HUNTING

Fallow Deer

Fallow deer are one of the least hunted deer species in New Zealand yet they are one of the most thrilling to hunt. They are one of the best eating venison meats and a Fallow buck trophy is a great reward. Hunting season for a meat animal is late spring through to the start of winter, however in places where food is readily available they can be hunted all year round. For Fallow bucks the best time to hunt is during the croak or rutting season which starts early April and can last up to a month but again can be hunted all year round. A late season buck often has missing spellers or severely broomed off palms as well as numerous battle scars and patches of hair missing.

Arapawa Sheep

The Arapawa Sheep, introduced in 1867, is a breed of feral sheep that lived on Arapaoa Island in the Marlborough Sounds. It is generally accepted that they are descendants of Merino strains from Australia. The Ewes have horns and the rams have long spiral horns that often measure over 1 metre (3 ft). They are found in a rather hostile and very steep terrain. They have a light build and long legs making them a rather active breed. The head and face are narrow and clear while the ears are slender. Most often, the Arapawa displays all black. However quite often white points are displayed. On rare occasions an all-white sheep can be observed. «Cocktail» Arapawas are those that are white spotted.

Chamois

The Chamois is a species of goatantelope native to the mountains in Europe. It has also been introduced to the South Island of New Zealand.

A fully grown chamois reaches a height of 70–80 cm (28–31 in) and measures 107–137 cm (42–54 in).

Both males and females have short, straightish horns which are hooked backwards near the tip, the horn of the male being thicker. In summer, the fur has a rich brown colour which turns to a light grey in winter. Distinct characteristics are white contrasting marks on the sides of the head with pronounced black stripes below the eyes, a white rump and a black stripe along the back. Chamois have two traits that are exploited by hunters: the first is that they are most active in the morning and evening when they feed and the second is that they tend to look for danger below, which means that a hunter stalking chamois from above is more likely to be successful.

HUNTING

HUNTING PACKAGES

Red Stag and Tahr – A Favourite Duo

Combining a Red Stag hunt (up to 360 sci) with an alpine hunt for a big Bull Tahr is the most popular hunting pursuit in New Zealand. Includes all helicopter fees if needed and 5 days/4nights daily rate.

Tahr and Chamois Combo

Already have a Red Stag trophy? This combo is pure alpine hunting for Tahr and Chamois. Get ready for amazing views, exciting hunting and a true mountain adventure. Includes helicopter drop-off fees if needed and 5 days/4 nights daily rate.

Three of the Best Hunt for a trophy Red Stag (up to 360 sci) then top it off with the incredible alpine wilderness hunts for trophy Bull Tahr and Chamois. This is an amazing and exciting hunt for New Zealand’s finest trophies. Includes helicopter drop-off fees if needed and 6 days/5nights daily rate.

Mega Hunt – 5 Animals

If you love to hunt this is the deal for you! Hunt for Red Stag (up to 360 sci), Arapawa Ram and Fallow Buck, then add the adventure of hunting Tahr and Chamois in the alpine wilderness for the ultimate hunt! Includes helicopter drop-off fees if needed and 6 days/5 nights daily rate.

Stag and Tahr Tour

After enjoying a few days hunting your trophy stag, tour some of our beaufiful country and experience a tahr hunt in our alpine regions. Then head south for a few days sightseeing in the adventure capital, Queenstown.

COST (in USD): Prices are for 2 people and include:-

One Gold Red Stag (up to 400 sci) and One Himalayan Tahr

4 nights hunting, 2 nights Tekapo, 1 nights Gibbston Winery, 2 nights Queenstown

Scenic flight with picnic, Milford Sound Day Trip (due to insurance reasons car hire is not included and will be paid for locally)

Day 1 to4

Upon arrival into Christchurch, your Monarch guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation for your 4 night hunt experience. A normal hunting day will start with an early breakfast before heading in to the hills early in search of your stag and you will probably in to the late afternoon. There is always the option as well to chase a ram or fallow buck during your hunting days. The evenings you will be spent in the company of other guests and your Monarch guides around the table in the lodge reliving the adventures of the day!All Meals included.

Days 5 and 6

After breakfast you will collect your hire car and head south to Aoraki National Park, home to New Zealand's largest mountain - Mount Cook. Your accommodation here is at the luxurious Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat set in 66 hectares of forest wilderness, nestled between the turquoise blue waters of Lake Pukaki and the majestic Ben Ohau ranges. During your stay here you will experience a scenic helicopter flight with a picnic on a glacier and an incredible evening of stargazing with the host at the Lakeside Retreat. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 7

Continuing south, you will pass through stunning mountain and lake scenery to arrive in the famous Gibbston wine region where you will spend a night at one of the many boutique wineries and have the opportunity to sample some of their unique wines and delectable cuisine.

Day 8 & 9

A short drive to Queenstown, we recommend you visit the famous AJ Hackett Bungee Bridge where, if you are brave enough, you can choose to jump! Your stay in Queenstown is at the private and sophisticated Rees Hotel where you will spend the next 2 nights situated right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. You will have time over to wander the shops, relax in your hotel or explore Queenstown's vibrant cafe scene but one day trip not to be missed be missed is the Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Regularly listed by Conde Nast and Trip Advisor as one of the top places in the world to visit, towering mountain landscapes and lush rainforest descend into the southern ocean to create huge fjords peppered with extra-ordinary waterfalls. Our price includes a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown and including a nature cruise.

Day 10

This has been an epic New Zealand trip, immersing you in the South Island's massive alpine environment, the scenic big lakes and the vibrant local scenes of Christchurch and Queenstown. Plus you will be walking away with a tremendous trophy and hunting stories to share. Your last day concludes with a 10 minute transfer to Queenstown airport to connect with your flight back to the USA.

MONARCH TRAVEL

CANTERBURY

Canterbury is on the east coast of New Zealand, marked by grassy plains, breathtaking lakes, snow capped mountains and well known for its vineyards.

Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island. With meandering rivers flowing through it and surrounded by hills covered in walking and biking tracks. Expect street art and a bustling hospitality scene.

Hanmer Springs

Best known for its natural hot pools and stunning landscapes, a picturesque alpine village 90 minutes’ drive from Christchurch. Go forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, bungy jumping, jet boating or, in winter, hit the slopes and go skiing.

Kaikõura

A coastal town and the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and tucking into a plate of cray fish. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters and whale watching trips leave the town several times a day!

CANTERBURY - THINGS TO DO

Christchurch

Botanical Gardens

Perfect for an enthusiastic gardener.

Antarctic Centre

A range of immersive experiences that allow everyday visitors to see, touch, feel and fall in love with Antarctica.

Christchurch Gondola

Take in the spectacular 350-degree views and see Christchurch from a different perspective!

Kaikõura

Whale watching

On the East Coast, one of the only places in the world you can see sperm whales all year around.

Deep Sea Fishing

The Kaikõura waters are filled with a variety of fish including Blue Cod, Sea Perch, Grouper as well as many other species!

Sea Kayaking

Get up close to some locals, New Zealand Fur Seals, dusky Dolphins plus some tiny blue penguins.

Hanmer Springs

Jet boating

Experience 360-degree spins, exhilarating rapids and getting absolutely soaked.

Thermal Pools

A special and extensive thermal pool complex in an alpine environment.

Bungee Jumping

Jump off the historic Ferry Bridge bracing yourself for a 35-meter free fall.

CANTERBURY - PLACES TO STAY

Britten Stables

You are close to all amenities you may need whether its shop till you drop, a fantastic coffee or a vast array of restaurants all is offered around Britten Stables. A luxurious and boutique accommodation, this exclusive B&B has so much history too as it is the birthplace of the world record setting Britten V1000 motorcycle designed and built by John Britten.

Village Lake Luxury Apartments

In the heart of Hanmer Springs, the Village Lake Apartments offers you the chance to escape the chaos and relax in Alpine beauty. These apartments are fully equipped with everything you may need. Thermal Pools and Spa is situated only a few minutes from your location along with boutiques, cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines to cater for everyone.

Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses

A distinctive boutique luxury accommodation set on a large farm in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, between the Kaikoura Mountains and the Pacific Coast. The lodge’s five tree houses are unique, nested 10 meters or more above the ground in the canopy of a native Kanuka grove making it a very spectacular Lodge.

Hanmer Springs

Kaikõura

Christchurch

MACKENZIE COUNTRY

The Mackenzie Basin, lies roughly in the centre of the South Island ~ Within the expansive Mount Cook National Park

There are numerous scenic attractions including New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. The Mackenzie region is also home to some of the most picturesque lakes in New Zealand including the turquoise blue hues of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki with its perfect views of Mount Cook.

A significant area within the Mackenzie region has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve with one of the prime stargazing locations being on top of Mount John near the Lake Tekapo Village. With so many things to see and do, you can see why you need to allow plenty of time to explore the Mackenzie Region!

MACKENZIE COUNTRY - THINGS TO DO

Lake Tekapo

About three hours drive south-west of Christchurch Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.

Church of the Good Shepherd

The shores on the lake you’ll see the beautiful little church, where the altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake.

Tekapo

Springs

Three hot pools, an Aqua Play Area, steam and sauna rooms and a cold plunge pool. In winter, ice skate on our scenic, outdoor rink or take a thrilling ride on our snow tube.

Mount Cook Alpine Village

Just a 50 minute drive from the main highway, the most accessible point to New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook. Mount Cook village sits amongst sky-scraping peaks, and phenomenal glaciers, all beneath a stunning starstudded sky.

Scenic flights

Flight lengths range from a 10 minute overview to 90 minutes of witnessing all the hidden gems of Aoraki Mt Cook and Westland National Park.

Glacier Kayaking

If you want to get a closer look at the glaciers then this is a great option, you can paddle out to the glacier with the added safety of a professional guide.

Wanaka

Set on the southern end of its name sake lake with views of snow capped mountains. It’s the gateway to the Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park, a wilderness of glaciers, beech forests and alpine lakes.

Wine tours

Discover wonderful vineyards and scenery and sample their produce.

Walking

The Mackenzie area is a walkers paradise. The Hooker Valley, Pukaki and Mt John Summits tracks offer swing bridge crossings, exceptional views of the mackenzie basin, glacial lakes, the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook.

MACKENZIE COUNTRY - PLACES TO STAY

Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is set in a forest wilderness, nestled between the turquoise blue waters of Lake Pukaki and the majestic Ben Ohau ranges. It is right on the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park located in the beautiful and unique Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Take time at the onsite observatory to explore the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the darkest skies in the world!

The Hermitage

Nestled in the beautiful Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect base for your next adventure. Recognised as part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area, the National Park is a breath-taking environment of glaciers, terminal lakes, turbulent rivers and Australasia’s tallest peak, the mighty Aoraki Mt Cook soaring above at 3,724 metres. The iconic Hermitage Hotel is home to a selection of restaurants and bars as well as a range of activities to entertain and delight.

Wanaka Homestead

Situated next to the resplendent Wanaka Station Park on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Wanaka Homestead offers the choice of boutique bed & breakfast accommodation in the Homestead Lodge or self-catering in the family-friendly Ruby Cottage and Lismore Cottage. Superbly located, Wanaka Homestead is a stone’s throw from Lake Wanaka and the infamous Wanaka Tree, an easy stroll to the vibrant Wanaka township and a splendid short drive to awe-inspiring vistas and adrenaline inducing landscapes.

QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown is a resort in the Otago region and rated one the worlds best places for its scenery and adrenalin sports.

Sitting on the shores of the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu and nestled amongst four mountains, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, Ben Lomond and The Remarkables, this breathtaking city has views you will remember for life! Internationally recognized as New Zealand’s premier visitor destination with more than 3 million visitors each year activities include:- high speed jet boat rides, jumping from cable cars, gondola rides and skydiving, as well as being home to the famous Bungy jump!

AJ Hackett started New Zealand’s adventure tourism here by creating a site on the

Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge in 1988 Which became the world’s first commercial public bungy.

More mild-mannered adventurers can take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fiordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the regions 75 wineries. The centre of Queenstown is home to an array of fashion boutiques, retail outlets and shopping gems. This cosmopolitan New Zealand resort town has plenty to offer shopaholics and budget-conscious buyers alike.

QUEENSTOWN - THINGS TO DO

Fiordland Fly-Cruise Milford Sound, on the west coast of the South Island, is a world renowned natural wonder with towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and amazing wildlife. Discover this spectacular region with a Milford Sound day trip with return flights from Queenstown and get up close and personal with Milford Sound on our leisurely Nature Cruise.

Shotover Jet Boat

World famous as the world’s most

exciting jet boat ride, Shotover Jet has thrilled almost 4 million people since it began in 1965. Riding the rapids and performing thrilling, gravity defying stunts within a hair’s breadth of the awe-inspiring cliff faces. Hold on tight for plenty of full, 360° spins!

Skyline Gondola

A scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola taking in the stunning viewsas you ride in the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Once at the top take a few rides on the famous Luge where you can be in complete control as you take on over 800 meters of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. South Island Pinot Noir from one ofthe region’s 75 wineries.

QUEENSTOWN - PLACES TO STAY

Minaret Station

This ranks as one of the most unique stays imaginable, an utterly divine location accessible only by helicopter. Each chalet features a king-sized bed (or twin), ensuite bathroom and private deck. Alpine board walks connect the chalets to the main lodge with two separate living areas, wood-burning fires and well-stocked library.

The Rees Hotel

A sophisticated five-star hotel situated right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu offers a variety of spacious and luxurious accommodation options including 60 Hotel rooms, 90 Apartments and 5 private 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom Lakeside Residences.

Sofitel Hotel

Centrally located in the heart of Queenstown’s dining and entertainment precinct, this Hotel is the perfect base to explore central Queenstown on foot.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to travel for hunting in New Zealand?

Early February to late July is the best time for hunting trophy Red Stags. Chamois and Bull Tahr have a similar peak time being mid March to June. Fallow Buck peak time is early April to May. However most animals can be harvested from mid January to October.

Can I bring my gun??

Yes! Absolutely. Despite popular opinion New Zealand is very welcoming of hunters and their equipment. We can assist you with the necessary police paperwork before your arrival. It is important, however, that you are aware of restrictions in your home country to bring your gun home as these are often stricter than bringing your gun to New Zealand. Alternatively, we have really high quality Sako rifles that you can use free of charge.

How do I get my tropy home?

We will introduce you to one of New Zealand’s most respected taxidermists. You can then decide whether you would like your trophy mounted in New Zealand or the skin and antlers expedited and sent to you. The taxidermist will then work with you to ship your trophy home in the most cost effective and speedy method.

Can I bring non hunters?

We recognise that not everyone wants to hunt. In fact, the greatest majority of our clients are couples and families -nearly always with at least one nonhunter. We take as much time designing our hunting vacations around the nonhunters as the hunters. We ensure there is lots to do from sightseeing to adventure activites or just relaxing with maybe a spa treatment.

Can I take the meat home?

Yes, you certainly can. USA customs allows meat from New Zealand across their borders. We will chill and prepare the meat, vacuum pack it and place in polystyrene cool boxes for your transportation. You will however need to allow for extra baggage charges and we recommend booking this in advance for your return journey.

I have reduced mobility, can I still hunt?

Yes, Monarch welcomes all people to enjoy New Zealands hunting landscape and will cater for anyone that has reduced mobility. Monarch will modify normal hunting tactics so you are able to enjoy and achieve your New Zealand hunting dream.

MAKE AN ENQUIRY

Once we have crafted the perfect hunting trip for you we will ask for a 50% deposit to confirm your booking. These deposits are non-refundable how ever Monarch will gladly provide alternative dates where possible should you be unable to make your original booking.

You will have 24 hour access to your personal Monarch Concierge for any requirements you might have while traveling.