Sika
The cunning,
sneaky
masters of
concealment
This proud yet intelligent trophy is a world class hunting experience for the passionate patient hunter.
Travel time to hunt
- 30 mins by chopper
- 1.5 hrs by car
Sika (Cervus nippon)
Sika Deer are notorious for being one of the most intelligent species of deer here in New Zealand, local hunters often call them ‘the cunning sneaky masters of concealment’.
Originating from Asia our Sika were introduced into New Zealand’s native bush from a heard in England in the early 1900’s. When deer are young, they are born with brown and white spotted coats, most species loose these spots as they reach the age of one. Sika deer however, are one of the few species of deer that do not completely lose their spots. Their coats change from a beautiful chestnut with creamy spots to an almost brown grey in winter. This makes Sika a top choice for hunters seeking this magnificent coat.
Sika Stags have grand brown antlers commonly with four points on each side. The Sika rut begins in April, when they will be heard bellowing through the trees calling their mates and challenging contesters. The Sika calls others with what hunters refer to as a ‘honk’ which can be expected to sound like a series of donkey honks.
Patience is key to hunting this species of deer. Like Fallow deer they are extremely wary with heightened senses and prove an encouraging challenge for those hunters willing. This proud yet intelligent trophy is a world class hunting experience for the passionate patient hunter. Sika meat is known as the sweetest type of venison.
From start to finish, an amazing experience. We knew it would be a successful hunt when we saw the deer on the driveway within the first few minutes on the property.
Sika Gallery
I have never felt more comfortable in traveling across the world to go hunting. I felt like I was hunting with family all week.
