Hunt your sika amongst the largest estate herd in New Zealand

Without doubt, when you hunt with us you will benefit from hunting the largest estate sika herd in the southern hemisphere. After all this was the original liberation point for these animals in New Zealand.  And just as brilliant as the estate herd is the opportunity for free range sika hunting at Poronui - our preferred hunting area for this species.  At Poronui on an average day, you will see at least ten of these beautiful deer with outstanding genetic quality.  Sika deer are a favorite of many New Zealand hunters, and for many international hunters they are a very close second to red stag.

Your sika hunt - our approach

The sika is an exciting species to hunt - emitting a high pitched squeal when disturbed or alarmed.  Aggressive towards one another sika are often seen fighting. Their distinctive rutting call can be heard from early April, almost into June.  The excitement of sika hunting is truly contagious because our guides also love to hunt these animals.  Even though they are often heard, they are not always seen (the sika, that is).  At Ian Lowe Hunting, our guides are highly experienced at hunting sika so when you combine this experience with the challenge to put your hunting ability to the test  -  chances are you'll get yourself a mighty fine trophy.

Character and characteristics

Sika deer are significantly smaller than red deer.  Interestingly, they have a dark 'dorsal' strip running from neck to tail.  When alarmed they will display a flared out white rump patch, usually visible as they silently disappear into thick cover with not even the telltale sound of a branch moving or twig breaking. Regarded as a pretty deer due to fine facial features and beautiful coat, a sika stag makes a stunning trophy. Typical sika have 8 points (4x4) , but non typical extra points are not uncommon in the exceptional herd you can hunt with our guides.

Challenging, not costly

Just as a sika is a fantastic challenge for an experienced hunter, sika are also available as a management species or as a sport hunt following a red stag trophy. Ladies tend to really enjoy hunting sika so it's always easy to even add one to your hunt as you go.  Management sika start at US$1,500 trophy fee.  Or, if you're after the biggest sika you can find including opportunities for over SCI 150 then choose the $4,250 trophy fee option for the biggest you can get.