This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Fiordland’s wapiti deer have become New Zealand’s first Herd of Special Interest (HOSI), with the Government formally designating the introduced species under a hunter-led management framework.
Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager announced the designation in Te Anau, saying it would allow the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation to continue managing the herd for hunting while supporting conservation outcomes.
Under the arrangement, the foundation will deliver annual operational plans developed with the Department of Conservation in partnership with iwi and hapū.
Meager says the framework will help maintain sustainable herd numbers while reducing browsing pressure on native vegetation.
“The management plan does not seek to increase animal numbers. A key focus will be to help native vegetation recover by reducing browsing pressure, so young plants can survive and ecosystems can regenerate over time.”
The Fiordland Wapiti Foundation already undertakes activities including deer culling, administering the annual wapiti ballot, maintaining tracks and huts, and trapping predators to protect native species such as whio.
The designation follows a statutory consultation process that included public submissions, engagement with Treaty partners and advice from government agencies. The Minister retains overall authority for the HOSI and can amend or revoke the designation if required.
The HOSI framework was established through legislation passed in 2013, with the Fiordland wapiti herd becoming the first to receive the designation.
