Top South Island Hunting Outfitters – New Zealand (2025)

South Island Hunting Outfitters

Fraser Safaris NZ

Location: Geraldine, Canterbury

30+ years; operates from Woodbury Safari Lodge, blending private estate and alpine hunts. Trophy Red Stag, Tahr, Chamois, Elk, etc.

Offers helicopter-supported hunts.

Fraser Safaris NZ
South Island hunting outfitters

Avon Valley Safaris

Blenheim, Marlborough

5,000-acre private ranch + adjacent free-range blocks; 100% trophy success.

Features chef-prepared meals and spot-and-stalk hunts for Red Stag, Sika, Tahr, etc.

Avon Valley Safaris
South Island hunting outfitters (1)

Frontier Guiding NZ

Location: Southern Alps (based near Lake Wanaka / Fairlie)

NZPHGA-licensed bespoke backcountry hunts in the rugged Southern Alps.

Frontier Guiding NZ
South Island hunting outfitters (9)

Zion Hunt NZ

Location: Timaru, South Canterbury

Premier hunts on both private and public lands; Red Stag, Tahr, Chamois, Fallow, Elk, and more.

Zion Hunt NZ
South Island hunting outfitters (8)

Real Kiwi Hunting

Location: Fairlie/Blue Mountain Station area

Free-range operation led by Mike & Maddie; highly praised on hunting forums.

Real Kiwi Hunting
South Island hunting outfitters (7)

Four Seasons Safaris

Location: Kaikōura region, Canterbury

Multi-award–winning; offers estate and free-range hunts, including helicopter access. Family– and non-hunter friendly.

Four Seasons Safaris
South Island hunting outfitters (3)

Leithen Valley Hunts

Location: Gore/Wanaka, Otago

40,000-acre private estate offering scenic fair-chase hunting for Red Stag, Tahr, and Chamois.

Leithen Valley Hunts
South Island hunting outfitters (4)

South Pacific Safaris

Location: Kaikōura, Marlborough

Coastal estate with access to alpine free-range hunts. Known for top trophy genetics and ocean-to-mountain terrain.

South Pacific Safaris
South Island hunting outfitters (5)

Exclusive Adventures NZ

Location: Cromwell, Otago

Guaranteed Red Stag hunts on multiple private hunting blocks; luxury and personalized service.

Exclusive Adventures NZ
South Island hunting outfitters (6)

Venator NZ

Location: Cardrona / Wanaka region

Ultra-premium estate hunts featuring large Red Stag herds (400–700+ SCI), along with Chamois, Tahr, Elk. Includes heli-access and luxury lodge living.

Venator NZ
South Island hunting outfitters (10)

Lochinvar Safaris

Location: Fairlie/Tekapo area, Canterbury

Premier operator in alpine trophy hunts—Red Stag, Tahr, and Chamois.

Lochinvar Safaris
South Island hunting outfitters (11)

New Zealand Safaris

Location: Fairlie, Mackenzie Basin

Free-range high-country hunts from lodge; includes North and South Island species: Red Stag, Tahr, Chamois, etc.

New Zealand Safaris
South Island hunting outfitters (2)

Planning the Ultimate NZ Hunt? Here’s Why the Right Outfitter (and the Right Footage) Matters

Planning your first South Island hunting trip? Not sure which outfitter actually delivers the goods (or allows filming)? This guide breaks down the top 12 professional hunting guides in New Zealand — with real info, not recycled TripAdvisor fluff. From alpine heli drops to coastal red stag ranches, here’s how to pick the perfect hunt base (and how to get it all on film).

What to Think About Before Filming Your New Zealand Hunt

FAQ: Filming Your New Zealand Hunt & Guided Hunt Basics

1

Question

Can I bring a videographer to a South Island hunting outfitter?

2

Answer

Yes. Most top South Island outfitters welcome professional hunt videographers, especially those familiar with backcountry terrain and who know how to stay invisible during the stalk.

3

Question

Will filming disrupt the hunt?

4

Answer

Not if done right. At Elevate Digital, we use mirrorless rigs, stealth drones, and lav mics—no boom poles or bright jackets. We move like hunters, not film crews.

5

Question

What kind of film will I get?

6

Answer

From cinematic highlights to full mini-docs, we tailor films for family legacy, social media, or personal replay.

7

Question

Do I need a hunting license in New Zealand?

8

Answer

Your outfitter will typically handle all required permits and logistics. There is no tag system like in the U.S., making guided hunts very accessible.

9

Question

How physical are South Island hunts?

10

Answer

Free-range hunts can be physically demanding, with steep terrain and long stalks. Estate hunts offer more controlled access. Good base fitness helps in both.

Interested In filming your hunt?

Hunting Videography