Thread: Foreigner looking for weekend hunt opportunities in New Zealand

Hello there, American here looking for some guidance...

I'll be in Sydney for work June-->mid-July. It has been a life long dream to hunt in New Zealand, and if possible I'd like to take advantage of the proximity - however I'll essentially only have weekends available for travel & recreation. I would like to make at least one backpacking trip to NZ. Knowing nothing of DIY hunting opportunities there, I'm wondering if you can share with me some knowledge & experience.

Initial questions:
1. Feasibility of a DIY 2 day backpack hunt for deer, boar, or red stag? Are there hunting seasons and public land opportunities for a foreigner?
2. Weaponry - is it possible to rent a rifle, or a bow for that matter?
3. Location - is the south island the way to go? Time constraints being what they are, I'd like to minimize time from airport to mountain. Also, if hunting isn't feasible, where are the most magnificent NZ views to be found for someone who can cover a lot of ground/elevation in two days?
4. Fishing - the fly rod will come with as well, and would be grateful for some ideas there too.

Any advice you can share is greatly appreciated. Happy hunting!