Thread: North Island HELP to take an old friend hunting

Hey everyone,

I don't very often ask for help and this time it's to help an old friend......

I started my hunting journey many years ago when I worked for the UK Government. I managed to find a slot on their deer management programme which involved me being allocated a trainer and serving an apprenticeship under him until I passed all the deer management qualifications and my trainer and mentor signed me off. I wen't on and trained many others over the years but remained close friends with my mentor. Fast forward a few years and I have recently moved to Taupo and promised my friend I would take him hunting ion New Zealand so he can experience kiwi hunting - he is visiting in Feb / March next year. My friend who is a former soldier is getting on in his years and his health is not what it was (serving Queen and country for many years has taken it toll on him) and this is likely to be his first trip to NZ and last overseas hunt.

So..... I am looking for a bit of help and advice on where I can take my friend for a few days hunting.

• He's never shot Red deer so was thinking that the Ruahine's might be a good option.
• I think he would love hunting the tops but I really don't know the Ruahine's area or where to take him.
• I am happy to pay for a chopper in and out of the mountains for us, it's the least I can do for a friend who has been so kind and generous to me over the years. Is this a sensible option? Any operators you would recommend?
• Are there any decent huts we could use rather than him having to carry camping gear?

I have the Spot-X book but would be really grateful for some local knowledge and advice.

Thanking you in advance