Contact Us
PO BOX 72
Methven, New Zealand
PHONE: +64 21 644 507
FAX: +64 3 308 2665
EMAIL: mail@backcountry.co.nz

Click here to download the information on New Zealand Hunting trips, hunting equipment, hunting guides, hunting species, big game hunting, deer stalking and many other interesting facts about hunts in NZ. Wapiti (Cervus elaphus nelsonii) Found in the Fiordland National Park. These are large animals, growing very large antlers. Length has exceeded 55 inches in historic herds, but interbreeding with red deer has reduced the pure wapiti genetics. Hence antler length and spread often dont exceed 45 inches. Fiordland Wapiti Foundation have been working with Department of Conservation to actively control and protect this historic herd for hunting, through management of the population. This involves culling of red deer through aerial recovery, and also culling of hybrid red/wapiti in selection for pure wapiti type animals. Slowly genetics are becoming more pure wapiti, and antler length/points/span is increasing once again to trophy status. Whitetail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) These deer are found in the lower South Island, but predominantly on Stewart Island. They are challenging and elusive to hunt. They are much smaller in size compared to the American counterparts and do not produce trophy heads as large. Often the environment itself is an attraction to hunters, where many native birds are present, including kiwi roaming the forest during the day. Pigs They are widespread throughout New Zealand and commonly are hunted using dogs. Pigs range in size and in the wild can exceed 250 pounds.They are sought after by hunters as they have a unique free range taste. They can cause a large amount of damage to the environment through rooting up of native plants. Tahr Himalayan Tahr, also known as "thar", is a species related to the goat that was introduced into New Zealand in the 19th century. The Department of Conservation control numbers to below 10,000. Found in only two places in the world, the Himalayas and New Zealand. They are sought after by hunters for their meat, horns and skin. During winter bull tahrs develop a heavy mane and coat that is attractive as skin or rugs. Currently, there issues between New Zealand hunters and commercial operators over heli-hunting. Most hunters in New Zealand attempt to gain a trophy through climbing into the area where the tahr roam, upwards of 2000m. Heli hunting has been an issue as tourists are now flying up to where these trophy animals are, shooting them which appears to devalue the respected status as a prized trophy in New Zealand. © Backcountry NZ guided hunting outfitters

Click here to download the New Zealand guide to fly fishing trips avaialable © Backcountry NZ fishing guides in Methven

Big game hunting is approached in many different ways. A popular way to hunt is by using a tree stand. A hunter will set up a tree stand and wait for the prey to approach. The same technique is also used on the ground, but because animals tend to be more aware of things on the ground, stealth is more important. Another common approach is stalking. While stalking, a hunter will approach his or her prey using stealth, with the intention to get into range with their particular weapon and ensure a clean hit. Driving is another method. The shooter or shooters take position stealthily, using the natural landscape of the area to choose a spot that will help ensure a wide view. Then the drivers move toward the shooter in a line, making a lot of noise with the intention of forcing the animal to run toward the hunter, giving him a chance to kill the animal. This technique only works well when there is cover, and if there is a natural feature to help corral the game. Helicopter hunting is sometimes done with large, swift animals because they may be too wary to approach otherwise especially in wide open terrain. It is not done for sport, but by game management officers. Ivory poachers will shoot from their vehicles as well.

Hunting in New Zealand, New Zealand hunting gun laws, New Zealand hunting permits, New Zealand hunting books, New Zealand hunting magazines, New Zealand hunting guides, New Zealand guided hunting, New Zealand hunting outfitters, New Zealand hunting articles, New Zealand helicopters, New Zealand helicopter hunting, New Zealand trophy red deer hunting, chamois, Himalayan thar, fallow deer, whitetail deer, sika deer, elk, wapiti, sambar deer, rusa, wild goats and wild pigs and boar in New Zealand. New Zealand hunting clothing, New Zealand woolen hunting clothing,Hunting is a recreational pursuit and a tourist activity in New Zealand with numerous books and magazines published on the topic.Introduced species Prior to human settlement New Zealand had no land based mammals other than bat species. European settlers introduced a wide range of animals including some specifically for game hunting. Acclimatisation societies Acclimatisation societies were active for a period of 60 years from the 1860s in having introduced animals established in New Zealand. The majority were introduced for food or sport. Government sanctioned deer culling By the 1950s red deer were recognised as an animal pest which damaged the natural environment and the government began employing hunters to cull the deer population to prevent this damage. Networks of tracks with bridges and huts were set up to gain easy access into the backcountry. These tracks and huts, now maintained by the Department of Conservation, are popular for tramping. Commercial hunting operations Foreign tourists come to New Zealand for hunting as part of guided tours or as independent hunters. Types of hunting Chamois Chamois is a goat-antelope native to Europe. Alpine chamois arrived in New Zealand in 1907 as a gift from the Austrian Emperor, Franz Joseph I. The first surviving releases were made in the Aoraki/Mount Cook region and these animals gradually spread over much of the South Island. They are often referred to colloquially as "chamy" (pronounced "shamy"). In New Zealand, hunting of chamois is unrestricted and even encouraged by the Department of Conservation to limit the animal's impact on New Zealand's native alpine flora. Deer Fallow Deer (Dama dama) A smaller species of deer in New Zealand. Various genotypes exist with differing colour phases: (i) Common, (ii) Melanistic, (iii) Menil and (iv) White. They are often found in bush closer to pasture/farmland, as prefer grazing on grasses. Major herds are found in the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Red deer (Cervus elaphus scoticus) The red deer in New Zealand produce very large antlers and are regarded as amongst the best in the world by hunters. Along with the other introduced deer species they are however regarded as a pest by the department of conservation and have at times been heavily culled using professional hunters. Additionally many hunters and outdoors enthusiasts class deer in NZ as a resource, for both food, hobbies, and an economic (tourist attraction). Ongoing issues over their pest status continue to be debated between parties.  

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In fly fishing, fish are caught by using artificial flies that are cast with a fly rod and a fly line. The fly line (today, almost always coated with plastic) is heavy enough to send the fly to the target. This is one of the main differences between fly fishing and spin or bait fishing; in fly fishing it is the weight of the line that carries the hook through the air, whereas in spin and bait fishing it is the weight of the lure or sinker that gives you casting distance. Artificial flies are of several types, some imitating an insect (either flying or swimming), others a bait fish or crustacean, others attractors are known to attract fish although they look like nothing in nature. Flies can be made either to float or sink, and range in size from a few millimeters to 30�cm long; most are between 1 and 5�cm. Artificial flies are made by fastening hair, fur, feathers, or other materials, both natural and synthetic, onto a hook. The first flies were tied with natural materials, but synthetic materials are now very popular and prevalent. The flies are tied in sizes, colors and patterns to match local terrestrial and aquatic insects, baitfish, or other prey attractive to the target fish species. Dry fly fishing is done with line and flies that float, joined by a leader, usually made of fine polyamide monofilament line. The tapered leader is 3 to 5 meters long, thus nearly invisible where the fly is knotted, and the angler can replace the last meter of nylon as required. Unlike sinking fly (nymph) fishing, the "take" on dry flies is visible, explosive and exciting. While trout typically consume about 90% of their diet from below-water sources, the 10% of surface-level consumption by trout is more than enough to keep most anglers busy. Additionally, beginning fly anglers generally prefer dry fly fishing because of the relative ease of detecting a strike and the instant gratification of seeing a trout strike their fly. Nymph fishing may be more productive, but dry fly anglers soon become addicted to the surface strike. Dry fly fishing on small, clear-water streams can be especially productive if the angler stays as low to the ground and as far from the bank as possible, moving upstream with stealth. Trout tend to face upstream and most of their food is carried to them on the current. For this reason, the fish's attention is normally focused into the current; most anglers move and fish "into the current", fishing from a position downstream of the fish's suspected lie. Trout tend to strike their food at current "edges", where faster- and slower-moving waters mix. Obstructions to the stream flow, such as large rocks or nearby pools, provide a "low energy" environment where fish sit and wait for food without expending much energy. Casting upstream to the "edge" of the slower water, the angler can see the fly land and drift slowly back downstream. The challenge in stream fishing is placing the fly with deadly accuracy, within inches of a protective rock for instance, not long range casting. Done properly, the fly seems to be just floating along in the current with a "perfect drift" as if not connected to the fly line. The angler must remain vigilant for the "take" in order to be ready to raise the rod tip and set the hook.


 

 

 

 

Fishing Equipment

Backcountry New Zealand can provide all equipment for guests. Some people prefer to bring their own lightweight waders and boots to ensure a good fit, but check they are in a clean and dry condition prior to departure on your flight to New Zealand. Generally clients wish to, and enjoy bringing their own equipment. The following information will help you prepare for your backcountry experience.

Equipment: 
 

Fly Fishing Rods 
 

 

At Sage, every piece of angling equipment we make is designed, tested and hand built with one goal in mind: Maximum Fishability. It's a term we came up with a few years back to describe the kind of performance that helps you cast better, fish more effectively and have more fun. In short, every Sage rod, reel and line is specifically designed to help you make the most of your precious time on the water. © Sage Fishing  

Preferably 5 and 6 weight. Long (8'6" upwards), fast action graphite. The modern three and four piece rods are excellent and, most importantly, are easy to carry on aircraft. Backcountry NZ uses and recommends Sage four piece ‘Z-Axis’ or ‘’TCX’ series. The casting is usually short range for our sighted trout fishing in order to reduce drag potential so it pays to overweight rods by one line weight as a standard practice. I.e. we use a WF6 line on a 5 weight rod and a WF7 line on a 6 weight rod.  Carry a spare spool with another line if you wish.

Fly Fishing Lines

Floating in dull colors – Rio selective trout WF series are excellent lines. Dull lines avoid line flash over the trout and are essential in clear water fishing for wild brown trout. Rio’s Camo Green colour is excellent.  Leave the bright and flashy lines at home for NZ. One line weight higher than your rod.

The Ultimate Fly Line    With a revolutionary design that allows for incredible loop stability at distance, a unique taper that allows a rod to load at close range and a positive front taper that delivers perfect presentation of flies between sizes #22 and #2, the RIO Gold is the ultimate all-around, floating line for freshwater fly fishing. The long back taper is excellent for mending and for roll casting.   The line features RIO’s XS Technology for an extraordinarily slick, dirt-repelling coating, as well as RIO’s AgentX and Super Floatation Technology that ensure the tip and the running line will float high. A welded loop on both ends of the fly line facilitates changing leaders and allows for fast rigging and line changes.   Colour:    Moss green head with gold running line (WF4-WF8)                or New Zealand Camo (WF5-WF7) Length:   27.5m (90') Ideal for: The ultimate all round line for NZ fishing conditions © Rio Lines

Fly Fishing Leaders

0x to 3x 9' to 12' (Rio, Cortland, Umpqua, Tippet 3x to 7x (Fluro-carbon).

Fly Reels

Any brand with good disk drag and 100m of backing. Again try and bring a reel that is dark and dull in color.  Lamson Litespeed and Ross Reels we recommend for their smooth and strong drag systems.

© Lamson

Waders

An industry standard, the Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot is the go-to wader for any angler seeking performance, durability and comfort whilst in New Zealand.

5-layer and 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell fabric technology Patented front and back leg seam construction for enhanced articulation, comfort and durability Patented built-in Guide Model Gravel Guards Exterior chest pocket with zippered closure holds large fly box Fleece-lined hand warmer pocket with DWR treatment Flip-out Tippet Tender pocket includes patented built-in retractor Low profile belt loops accommodate 2" wading belt Easily convert to waist highs DEET & saltwater resistant Nylon wading belt & repair kit included Every pair manufactured in Bozeman, Montana © Simms

Wading Boots

We use and recommend the Simms G4 Guide Boot. This is the hardest working & most comfortable boot that Simms offers. The G4 utilizes the latest Streamtread sole technology as Felt soled boots are banned from use in New Zealand. Backcountry NZ has a range of boots for clients, and if required please advise of your foot size.

Schoeller®-dynatec high performance abrasion-resistant mesh panels with Nanosphere® finish Bellowed leather tongue allows for easy-on, easy-off Molded toe and heel counters eliminate toe box collapse and provide a better fitting boot PU one-piece midsole Minimum exposed stitching for increased durability and less opportunity for "hitchhikers" Fully neoprene lined with closed-cell foam for minimal water absorption Rubber rand for superior durability & and internal 3D ankle stabilizer Contoured speed lacing system with roller guide eyelet for friction-free adjustment & high quality, non-corrosive hardware Offered in men's whole sizes: 7-14 EEE Features CleanStream™ technology along with our new StreamTread™ traction sole with Vibram® Idrogrip™ 360 traction lug sole. View available Vibram® re-solers here . Imported © Simms

 

Clothing & Other Fishing Equipment: 

Light Weight Shirts & Pants

Columbia fishing clothing is great in the SPF 30+ Bahama Long Sleeve shirt & convertible pant Sage Green. Simms clothing also follows a clothing layering system as detailed below.

BAHAMA™ II L/S SHIRT fly fishing shirt Lightweight, durable nylon dries fast should you get splashed; mesh-lined cape vents at the back shoulder enhance airflow to keep you cool in the hottest conditions. Built-in UV protection keeps the sun off your back so you can stay out until you're ready to come in. Two big chest pockets offer plenty of room for small gear; long sleeves can be rolled up and secured with button tabs. Relaxed fit. FEATURES: • 100% nylon Backcountry[tm] cloth • Omni-Shade[r] sun protection; UPF 30 • Quick dry • Vented • Rod holder © Columbia Clothing   Cold in the morning, sweltering at noon, chilly in the evening breeze. When fishing conditions are fickle, these convertible pants offer the perfect solution. Just zip off the legs to instantly transform them into a 7.5" inseam short. LESS   Light, durable nylon ripstop fabric features built-in sun protection and dries fast. Constructed specifically for the needs of anglers with a back hook and loop close pocket, roomy front slant pockets and hook and loop close patch pockets, and a radial leg gusset for great range of motion. Elastic back waistband is designed for a comfortable, custom fit. Authentic fit. FEATURES: • 100% nylon Perfecta™ ripstop • Omni-Shade® sun protection; UPF 15 • 2 front slant pockets, 2 front patch pockets, back pocket • Radial leg gusset • Available in 30", 32", or 34" inseam • Zip-off legs convert pant to 7.5" inseam short • Imported © Columbia Clothing

Thermal Warmer Layers

In New Zealand, heat and warmth management whilst out on your day is critical to comfort.  Weather and temperatures can dramatically change and rapidly.  We manage this by carrying ‘layers’ of thermal tops that can be put on or taken off easily.  The rule of thumb is a light weight layer against your skin designed to wick away any moisture, with layers of micro fleece and fleece for warmth and then a windbreak/rain jacket.  We recommend layering with the following Stoney Creek clothing that our guides use in New Zealand’s often harsh conditions:  Base Layer – Powder Dry shirt and pants; Thermal Layers – Micro Plus and Silent Series shirts; Wind/Rain Layer: Stoney Creek Huntlite Jacket.

Long Sleeve Shirt Green 1602 MicroPLUS+ gives you much more warmth for a lighter weight than any other fabric we know of. MicroPLUS+ has another advantage too; it packs down small so an extra shirt won't fill half your day pack. These shirts are ideal for wearing as an insulation layer when it's cold or on their own in milder weather. © Stoney Creek   Long Sleeve Shirt Bayleaf 1070 Made in a longer length means this shirt won't ride up when you bend over. Store more gear in the extra large chest pocket, ideal for your binoculars. Sleeves roll up easily with the double dome cuffs. Garments pack down smaller for traveling because the fabric is lighter than our standard Silent Series. perfect weight for autumn to winter Aussie hunting. Extremely durable Microtough face fabric resists pilling and keeps its good looks and if you rip your shirt while hunting we'll fix it for free under the 5-Year Extra Tough Repair Warranty. Weight 700 grams based on large size. © Stoney Creek

Rain Jacket

This is compulsory!! Remember dark colored or Camo jackets are best, and need to be very waterproof. Rain Layer: Stoney Creek Huntlite Jacket.

Huntlite Jacket Realtree® Hardwoods Green HD™ 4845 NEW FOR 2010 New for 2010 the most durable lightweight advanced hunting jacket on the market. You asked for less weight and more compactness. You demanded the proven toughness, durability and uncompromising standards and functionality you've come to expect from a Stoney Creek jacket. We listened, tested, refined and the end result is the new Huntlite Jacket. Weighing less than a kilogram, the Huntlite Jacket is 3-layer and seam sealed ensuring your complete protection an all elements but allowing you more options in what you can carry in your pack because of how tight it rolls up and less weight on your back when you are wearing it.  Weight 950grams based on size large. . Adjustable two way zips.    Articulated elbows. . Fully adjustable inside waist draw cord.  Adjustable three dimensional hood. . Waterproof and breathable neoprene wrist cuffs.  Underarm vent zips. . Fully secured side zipped handwarmer pockets. . Waterproof to over 10,000 + and breathable at 4000mvt.  This has been tested not just in the lab but out in the field.  We also add Teflon DWR (durable water repellent) to help shed water and the fabric dry quicker. 1ST LAYER      A short cropped tightly woven polyester tough face. Wont hold grass seeds, holds less water and more silent.  2ND LAYER     Some high end rainwear uses a microporous membrane which contains lots of tiny holes that allows body  vapour to pass through,  in hunting these become clogged by dirt,  grass stains and blood reducing breathabilty and performance. Our hydrophilic membrane works by moisture absorption on the inside of the fabric , body vapour diffusion through the fabric then evaporation from the outside. This is the perfect menbrane for the long term hunters.         3RD LAYER     The strong yet comfortable inner nylon mesh has a Ciba antimicrobial treatment. Kills off bacteria  and stops it smelling. All seams that have access to the weather are fully taped sealed to keep out the weather. We also use a water repellent polyester thread just to make doubly sure!  © Stoney Creek   Simms G3 Guide Jacket is perfect for New Zealand Fly fishing conditions © Simms

Polarized sunglasses

These will let you see the fish. Action Optics by Smith have a nice photochromic amber lens to suit NZ conditions.

Fly Fishing Optics © Smith Optics  

Sun Hat & Sun-cream

Dark or tan hat with a wide all-round brim to protect from the sun. Water resistant and minimum SPF30+ sun cream.

Daypack

A small daypack between the two of you can be helpful. Again dark colors.
 
 

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