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 Packages

Fly Fishing Trips in New Zealand  

After over 20 years of Fly-fishing guiding on the West and East coasts of the South Island we have put together some angling packages in order to provide you with some starting points when planning your New Zealand fly fishing holiday. The fishing trips we have put together as suggestions offer differing combinations of angling styles& locations, accommodation options and fishing trip durations.  Ideally these will fit with your budgets and holiday expectations, but if not we will design a trip to suit you while providing a fantastic fishing experience.

Each trip is detailed further on in this page.

This years special package prices are available here

Fishing Trip Name

Duration*
Day Fly Fishng Trips 1 Day
'There for the Taking' angling tour 7 Days 6 Nights
'Central South Island' angling tour 5 Days 4 Nights
'Springs & Freestone's' angling tour 3 Days 2 Nights
'Beluga Intro' short break angling tour 2 Days 2 Nights
'Grasmere Lodge exclusive' angling tour 2 Days 2 Nights

 

 

 

 

 

* Package durations and options can be customised to suit your needs.

 

Read brochure in Flip Book:

CANTERBURY DAY FISHING TOURS

Many people wish to experience New Zealand’s fly fishing as part of their family holiday or business trip.  We are all set up to provide day fishing trips from Christchurch, Methven and areas within the Canterbury High Country Region.

It always pays to book in advance, however if you just want to grab a day out on one of our pristine rivers with a great guide who will teach you as bests as conditions on the day allow, then give us a try.  If we are unable to guide you due to prior bookings, which can be the case during the busy months, then we will always try and suggest other good guides we know.  As the outfitting guide service for Grasmere, Wilderness & Flock Hill Lodges, as well as many accommodations in Methven and guides in Christchurch we can cover a large part of the Canterbury region.

DAY FISHING TOURS INCLUDE:

  • Departing Christchurch, Ashburton, Methven, Castle Hill, Flock Hill, Grasmere, Arthurs Pass in 4WD transport
  • Access, fishing guide, & concession fees
  • All fishing equipment if required
  • Streamside lunch and refreshments
  • Sighted trout fishing & tuition

Fishing Trip Duration:

10 Hours on average

Tour locations:

Christchurch, Methven, Ashburton, Arthurs Pass, Castle Hill Basin, Rangiora, Amberley.

Day Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here

Book a Day Fishing Trip

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  Fly fishing guides in New Zealand are most valuable for their ability to spot feeding trout prior to the fish observing the angler.  Stalking trout and sighted fly-fishing are unique disciplines of angling in New Zealand. Releasing your fish will be a moment never forgotten. © Backcountry NZ ©

‘THERE FOR THE TAKING’ FISHING TRIP

A seven day fly fishing package that is all inclusive, airport to airport, traveling angling experience. This Backcountry NZ fishing experience is developed for the avid fly fisherman who would rather fish than sleep! Book to secure prime dates.

A unique traveling tour aimed at discovering the heart of New Zealand backcountry with all the comforts of home. This all-inclusive experience utilizes a flexible approach, with your guide determining the fishing locations daily to suit the current weather patterns. Many returning clients express how they love to fish this way. Simple yet comfortable accommodation often includes farm stations, huts, or motels, situated with close access to fishing waters for longer and more flexible fishing days.

‘THERE FOR THE TAKING’ INCLUDES:

  • Airport transfers (Christchurch)
  • 6 nights’ accommodation, 7 days guiding
  • 4WD transport
  • Access, fishing guide, & concession fees
  • Fishing equipment if required
  • All meals and refreshments
  • Sighted trout fishing
  • Carbon neutral tour

Trip Duration:

7 days / 6 nights (7 fishing days)

Accommodation:

Farm stay, motels or cabins

Example: Flock Hill Lodge 

'There for the Taking' Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here
 

Book a 'There for the Taking' Fishing Tour

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‘CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND’ FISHING

A five day duration angling package utilizing a higher level of accommodation. Designed for those that enjoy the comforts of quality facilities and dining as much as their angling experience. The perfect length tour to get fantastic results.

Backcountry New Zealand understands that for some, dining and enjoying the place they stay is an important facet of their angling holiday. A package constructed with the concept of great fishing, great food, and great sleeps. This tour also has the option of operating in any part of New Zealand’s South Island or a combination of two differing areas by adding on some additional days. Your guides will provide you with the best angling opportunities each day, as well as ensuring that your evenings are relaxed and hassle free.

‘CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND’ INCLUDES:

  • Airport transfers if required
  • 4 nights’ accommodation, 5 days guiding
  • 4WD transport
  • Access, fishing guide, & concession fees
  • Fishing equipment if required
  • All meals and refreshments
  • Sighted trout fishing
  • Carbon neutral tour

Trip Duration:

5 days / 4 nights

Accommodation Examples:

Beluga Lodge, Ski Time Apartments, Flock Hill, and others

'Central South Island' Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here
 

Book a 'Central South Island' Fishing Tour

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‘SPRINGS & FREESTONES’ FISHING

A great introduction to fly fishing or a short fishing break as part of a New Zealand holiday. This package includes three exhilarating days of angling in the scenic Canterbury high country. Our most popular tour over the past ten years.

A shorter duration fishing tour designed for anglers who want to fish as part of a business trip or family holiday in New Zealand. This all inclusive trout angling experience utilizes comfortable accommodation within 1.5 hours of Christchurch. Day fishing excursions explore the streams and braided river systems of the Canterbury High country, targeting sighted Brown and Rainbow Trout. Dry fly and nymph fishing is common and available from October to April. Learn and try the stalking of sighted trout techniques that New Zealand is famous for.

 ‘SPRINGS & FREESTONES’ INCLUDES:

  •  2 nights’ accommodation, 3 days guiding
  • 4WD transport
  • Access, fishing guide, & concession fees
  • Fishing equipment if required
  • All meals and refreshments Sighted trout fishing 

Trip Duration:

3 days / 2 nights

Accommodation:

Beluga Lodge, Methven,

'Springs & Freestones' Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here
 

Book a 'Springs & Freestones' Fishing Tour

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'BELUGA INTRO' SHORT BREAK ANGLING TOUR

An introduction two day & two night duration angling package utilizing a higher level of accommodation. Designed for those that enjoy the comforts of quality facilities, and can only stay for a couple of days of extraordinary trout fishing.

Combine the comfort of Beluga boutique luxury lodging in the rural town of Methven, with the array of nearby outstanding trout streams and rivers.  Maybe you need a two day and two evening escape, birthday or anniversary gift to share with a friend? Whatever the reason, if you are after a short high quality fly fishing experience in the Canterbury high, then this is what you should be thinking of booking.  No hassles, just a fantastic angling experience!  Arlene & James at Beluga will ensure your relaxing comfort and our guides will handle the rest.

‘BELUGA INTRO’ INCLUDES:

  • 2 night’s quality accommodation and dining
  • 4WD transport
  • Access and concession fees
  • Fishing equipment and licences
  • 2 days fishing guiding
  • Sighted trout fishing
  • All meals and refreshments 

Trip Duration:

2 days / 2nights

Accommodation:

Quality Bed & Breakfasts / Lodges

'Beluga Intro' Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here
 

Book a Beluga Intro Fishing Tour

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GRASMERE EXCLUSIVE LODGE FISHING

New Zealand at it finest. An angling package utilizing one of New Zealand’s most respected accommodation lodges. A perfect option for those traveling as a couple, or with another couple and wanting fantastic lodgings with trout fishing.

The rivers and lakes around Grasmere lodge offer some of the best fishing that Canterbury has to offer. The fishing itself is often challenging and utilizing a guide to accelerate your learning is critical. Another fishing option from Grasmere is a day fishing trip into the contrasting landscapes of Westland's Podocarp forests and streams.  The Lodge accommodation is some of the most comfortable the country has to offer, supplemented by the hosting of Tom Butler and his fantastic team.  Many past clients return year after year saying ‘we just can’t get enough!’

‘GRASMERE EXCLUSIVE LODGE FISHING’ INCLUDES:

  • 2 night’s quality accommodation and dining
  • 4WD transport & complimentary activities
  • Access and concession fees
  • Fishing equipment and licences
  • 2 days fishing guiding & tuition
  • Sighted trout stalking

Trip Duration:

2 days / 2 nights

Accommodation:

Grasmere Exclusive Luxury Lodge 

Grasmere Lodge Fishing Tour Prices - Click Here
 

Book a Grasmere Lodge Fishing Tour

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© Backcountry New Zealand Fishing Guides