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EAST CAPE
Special
Feature: Trophy class red deer in the Raukumaras
Follow the Pacific Coast Highway beyond the Bay of Plenty and you
pass under the precipitous slopes of the Raukumara Range, which
conceals hidden valleys where heavy antlered red stags roam.
The Raukumaras form the last stage of a continuous chain of
mountains through the North Island beginning with the Rimutakas
near Wellington. To penetrate this incredibly steep and tortuous
wilderness area the hunter also needs to be an adventurer. Red
deer are the main quarry here and they are large beasts. The deer
are still colonising the range after spreading from the Ureweras
and as they extend their territory they find an abundant food
supply.
The main track system runs from Takaputahi in the west across the
Motu River and through a network of four huts to Mt Hikurangi and
on to Ruatoria near the east coast. Mt Hikurangi has the
distinction of being the first place in New Zealand to see the
sun each morning. The red deer range includes the Ruatoria and
Tokomaru forests, the Huiarau Range and the Ureweras north of
Lake Waikaremoana. Sika deer are continuing to spread into this
territory from the Kaweka Range.
Wild pigs are scattered throughout the Ureweras and inhabit the
Raukumaras in moderate numbers, particularly the rough
scrub-covered fringes of the forest park. Goats are present in
low to moderate numbers along the eastern borders of the main
range and in isolated pockets down the coast.
Mallard, grey and shoveler ducks are fairly widespread in this
region with paradise shelducks quite common in lower altitude
areas on the fringes of native bush country. Some good pheasant
and quail hunting is found in eastern forestry areas.
Guided hunting for trophy class red deer in the Raukumaras and
Ureweras is available at Ruatahuna and fair chase hunting in
remote Raukumara forest can be arranged at Motu and Gisborne.
Safari hunts for fallow bucks, goats and waterfowl are also
offered at Gisborne. Guided red deer stalking, wild pig, goat and
other small game shooting can be organised at Lake Waikaremoana.
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