Elk (Wapiti)
Elk (Wapiti)
Wapiti were originally named by the American Indians, but the term Elk was adopted in the U.S. and Europe. New Zealand Elk originate from a herd of Rocky Mountain Elk gifted to New Zealand by President Roosevelt in 1905, they were liberated at George Sound in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. This is the steepest, wettest and most isolated part of the country and thus the hunter faces a supreme test of endurance and skill. The original herd of 20 Elk quickly multiplied and produced outstanding trophies for elk hunting taken in the balloted ‘bugle’ period.
Today, you can also experience premier quality rocky mountain elk trophy hunting on private hunting preserves in New Zealand, attracting local and overseas hunters.
Best Hunting Times
Hunting elk on public land in the Fiordland National Park is unrestricted from June until the end of February. During the “bugle” period of March and April (the bugle is the mating call of a bull elk), special permits are required. There are two ballot periods of two weeks each. During these times a ballot system has been set up. The Elk hunting grounds are divided into 25 blocks. Two hunting parties are awarded the permits, with the number of hunters in those two parties (combined) not exceeding six and no single hunters are alloewd. Hunting elk either on private game reserve safaris or on private land with a licensed guide does not require a permit.
Typical Trophies
Elk are large animals with bulls reaching over 1,000 pounds. They are sought after as trophies as they can offer prized 12 point antlers. Safari outfitters charge a fee for preparing a trophy based upon the antler measurement.
Weapons
The animal can be effectively hunted with bows, rifles and muzzle-loading rifles. Bow hunters will have the added challenge of getting close enough for a kill. Elk Hunting Tips advises that you always shoot an elk twice, as they are very tough animals. Bolt action rifles are preferable for their accuracy, though a variety of cartridges are acceptable. A .30-06 for average big game hunting but allows that larger and smaller calibers will do. Some hunters use a 7mm magnum cartridge when elk hunting in the Fiordland National Park.
Types of Hunting Methods
It is important to focus on finding elk first, before you get caught up in bringing the animal down. Hunting elk requires hiking long distances into the back country and being able to identify areas where elk might feed or rest. A hunter also needs to consider the hundreds of pounds of meat or trophy if he plans to haul them home. This type of difficulty makes hiring a guide a reasonable decision for the inexperienced hunter. We offer guided hunts and safaris on private, fenced game reserves and the wilderness areas.
