If you are planning a red stag or tahr hunt in New Zealand, you may be wondering if you can bring your harvested meat home. This is one of the most common questions international hunters ask. The answer depends on several factors, including your home country’s regulations, New Zealand’s export rules, and the type of game harvested. This guide explains what you need to know so you can plan accordingly.
Can You Take Game Meat Home from New Zealand?
In most cases, you cannot bring raw or unprocessed game meat home after hunting in New Zealand. This applies to hunters returning to the United States, Canada, and many other countries. Customs regulations and biosecurity laws are strict when it comes to meat products, especially wild game.
New Zealand does allow local processing and consumption of your meat while on your trip. Many hunters enjoy backstraps and steaks at the lodge after a successful hunt. However, international export of meat typically requires full processing, inspection, and freezing to specific standards.
What Are the Export Options?
Four Seasons Safaris focuses on trophy hunts, and we handle all trophy export logistics for antlers, hides, and capes. Exporting meat is possible in rare cases, but requires:
- Approved game processing by a Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) registered facility
- Veterinary inspection and documentation
- Freezing to meet import regulations of the destination country
- Pre-approved permits and customs clearance on arrival
This process can be expensive and time-consuming. Most hunters opt to enjoy their meat in New Zealand and focus on shipping their trophy mounts home instead.
Can You Donate or Share the Meat Locally?
Yes, absolutely. Hunters often donate excess meat to local communities, lodge staff, or nearby families. This is a common and appreciated practice in New Zealand hunting culture. Some meat may also be processed into sausages or jerky for consumption during your trip.
At Four Seasons Safaris, we encourage hunters to make the most of their harvest while supporting ethical and sustainable practices. Our chef often prepares meals using fresh game meat at the Mahunga Homestead.
What to Do Instead of Shipping Meat
If your primary goal is to bring something home from your hunt, we recommend focusing on:
- Full shoulder or European mount of your trophy animal
- Photographs and videos of your hunt
- Locally crafted antler products or gifts from your safari
Our staff will help you prepare your trophies for export and work with trusted taxidermists to ensure safe and timely delivery.
Rules for U.S. Hunters
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have strict policies regarding wild game meat. Unless it has been fully processed in a USDA-equivalent facility and meets specific packaging standards, it cannot be brought into the country.
Visit the CBP website for updated regulations before you travel. You can also check with your airline to confirm baggage policies if meat is part of your plan.
Internal Resources and Helpful Links
- Rates and Packages
- Packing List for Your Hunting Safari
- What to Expect on Your First Red Stag Hunt
- Contact Four Seasons Safaris
Final Thoughts
While it may not be possible to bring your red stag backstrap or fallow deer steak home, your time in New Zealand will be filled with meaningful experiences, lasting memories, and incredible food while at the lodge. Focus on the adventure, the trophy, and the hospitality that comes with a hunt hosted by Four Seasons Safaris.
Still have questions? Contact us today and our team will walk you through everything you need to know about what you can and cannot bring home from your New Zealand hunting experience.