deer hunting in the Wairarapa Region of the north island

For the latest photos of the 2012 hunting season click here.

Te Awaiti is our private hunting lodge in the Wairarapa. The land ranges over 20,000 acres of Southern Wairarapa coastal hill country, which is located on the lower East coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Here we encounter a wide variety of terrain and hunting conditions, large native Podocarp forests, scrublands (reverted pasture) and open grass pastures make for a perfect environment for both the deer and the hunter. The terrain is moderately steep, access around the property is on well formed 4 x 4 tracks but a reasonable level of fitness will certainly improve your chances.

During the roar (rut) the master stags tend to herd the hinds (does) into the native forest. This provides thrilling close encounter type hunting as we are often able to call the stags into close proximity. After the roar, the stags tend to drift out of the forest and feed on the grass adjacent, recouping after the rigours of the mating season. This type of hunting is more about the use of binoculars and longer range shooting. It often produces the biggest stags! We are targeting 10 - 14 point animals that may be up to 40". There are no trophy fees. Ideally, we need 48 hours notice to arrange the best hunting experience for you and your group.

More About the Te Awaiti Hunting Lodge

Accommodation is in a basic yet very comfortable, purpose built lodge/camp. On most occasions you will have the camp to yourselves and the guide and the cook. The lodge is fully carpeted has comfortable bunk beds and an additional two bed cabin for those that require more privacy. Most importantly, warm fires and great cooking make for a welcome retreat after the rigour’s of a days hunting.

Seven miles of private coastline provide crayfish and abalone (paua) which often supplement venison, wild pork and wild mutton on the menu. The lodge can accommodate a maximum number of eight people. Hunting is done either on a 1 x 1 or 2 x 1 basis. 2 x 1 is the most cost effective but naturally hunters must then share the opportunities.

Getting to the Lodge

Access can be by helicopter (half an hour from Wellington airport) or by Land Cruiser, a 2 hour drive from Wellington airport. The property is approximately a one hour drive from Martinborough.

What to bring on your excursion

Good tramping boots, binoculars, camera, polar fleece (quiet) clothing and your personal requirements are all that is necessary. Firearms, ammunition, food and bedding is all provided as is wine and beer with the evening meal. You may feel the need to bring your favourite bottle of spirits! If you want to bring your own firearm you should discuss with Chris Jolly the most suitable calibre and configuration for your particular hunt.

Accessibility

Phone calls can be made via Skype and Internet access is available from the lodge.

Hunting Season

Our season starts in mid to late March. The roar takes place approximately from late March till late April. We continue to trophy hunt until August at which point the large stags are near to casting their antlers. Non trophy hunts can be done (by arrangement) year round.

Taxidermy

We cape-out and field dress your trophies before passing them over to a taxidermist. He will handle all export (if required) documentation and shipping. New Zealand clients are free to arrange their own and, of course, may take any meat home with them.

Duration of the Hunt

This depends on your calendar and budget. Trophy hunts should be a minimum of five days. Some clients stay for two weeks and hunt at a more leisurely rate than those that try and achieve everything in three days. If travelling from overseas you should allow as much time as possible in case inclement weather robs you of a day or two.

To download our August 2011 Hunting newsletter click here.

For more information about deer hunting at Te Awaiti, or the Taupo region, email enquiries@chrisjolly.co.nz or phone +64 7 378 0623