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
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
Frontier Guiding NZ
Location: Southern Alps (based near Lake Wanaka / Fairlie)
NZPHGA-licensed bespoke backcountry hunts in the rugged Southern Alps.
Frontier Guiding NZ
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
Real Kiwi Hunting
Location: Fairlie/Blue Mountain Station area
Free-range operation led by Mike & Maddie; highly praised on hunting forums.
Real Kiwi Hunting
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
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 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
Exclusive Adventures NZ
Location: Cromwell, Otago
Guaranteed Red Stag hunts on multiple private hunting blocks; luxury and personalized service.
Exclusive Adventures NZ
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
Lochinvar Safaris
Location: Fairlie/Tekapo area, Canterbury
Premier operator in alpine trophy hunts—Red Stag, Tahr, and Chamois.
Lochinvar Safaris
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
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 HuntFAQ: Filming Your New Zealand Hunt & Guided Hunt Basics
Question
Can I bring a videographer to a South Island hunting outfitter?
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.
Question
Will filming disrupt the hunt?
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.
Question
What kind of film will I get?
Answer
From cinematic highlights to full mini-docs, we tailor films for family legacy, social media, or personal replay.
Question
Do I need a hunting license in New Zealand?
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.
Question
How physical are South Island hunts?
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.