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About
New Zealand Turkey Adventures
New Zealand Turkey Adventures is the first and only outfitter specializing in springtime turkey hunts on New Zealand’s South Island. Operated by a lifelong turkey hunter from Louisiana—this experience offers North American-style hunts during New Zealand’s Spring (August to early October), when the birds are breeding, vocal, and responsive to calling.
With exclusive access to private stations (ranches) near Queenstown, hunters can expect four full days of guided hunting on stunning terrain, with all firearms and ammo provided.
Bring your calls, your vest, and your obsession for turkey hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of year is the best to hunt in New Zealand?
The best time is during New Zealand’s spring—August, September, and early October. That’s the peak breeding season, when turkeys are most vocal and responsive to calling, just like spring back home in the U.S.
Is New Zealand a good place to bring friends or family that don’t hunt?
Yes! The South Island is full of incredible views, friendly people, and plenty to explore. Even if someone’s not hunting, it’s still a one-of-a-kind trip they’ll never forget.
Do I need a visa to hunt in New Zealand?
Yes—U.S. travelers are required to get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before entering the country. The process is quick and can be done through the official New Zealand Immigration website or by using the NZeTA mobile app. https://www.immigration.govt.nz/nzeta
The cost is $35 USD, and most travelers will be approved within 24–72 hours. Be sure to apply before your trip—you won’t be able to board your flight without it.
Do I need my own firearms to hunt in New Zealand?
Nope—firearms are provided for the hunt, so you don’t need to travel with your own.
Is ammunition available in New Zealand?
Nope, ammo is provided as part of your hunt, so there’s no need to bring your own.
Do I need a license for New Zealand hunting?
Not for turkey. There are no seasons, limits, or license requirements for turkey hunting in New Zealand.
What kind of weather can be expected while hunting in New Zealand?
August (Winter):General: Expect cool and potentially wet weather, with temperatures dipping towards freezing in the south. North Island: Average daytime temperatures range from about 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). South Island: Average temperatures range from approximately 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F). Rainfall: August is one of the wettest months in the North Island.
September (Early Spring):General: Temperatures start to rise, marking the beginning of spring.
Average Daytime Highs: Expect temperatures in the 59°F (15°C) in Wellington and 61°F (16°C) in Queenstown, to 66°F (19°C) in Northland, and 64°F (18°C) in Auckland.
Lows: Lows are unlikely to get below freezing, except in high mountain areas.
Early October (Mid-Spring):General: Mild spring weather with temperatures in the early to mid 60s°F. Temperatures: Temperatures above 15°C (59°F) are common in places like Queenstown, while cities like Auckland and Christchurch can see temperatures closer to 20°C (68°F) during the day. Sunshine: Expect plenty of sunshine hours, perfect for outdoor activities.
What hunting gear will I need to bring to New Zealand?
We provide the guns and ammo, so you won’t need to travel with your own. Just bring your vest, your calls, and gear suited for the weather—just like you would for any turkey hunt back home.
How many days of hunting should I plan for?
Our hunts are set up for 4 full days of amazing hunting that you will never forget.
From One Hunter’s Dream to New Zealand’s First Spring Turkey Outfitter
I started chasing the idea of turkey hunting in New Zealand back in 2015 or 2016. At the time, there wasn’t a single outfitter offering dedicated turkey hunting packages in NZ—everybody wanted to bundle it as an add-on to a red stag hunt. But I wasn’t looking for a side dish. I wanted a full-on spring turkey hunting experience, Merriam’s gobblers and all.
In 2019, I finally connected with an outfitter willing to piece together a true guided turkey hunt in New Zealand for me and five buddies. We had our sights set on 2020... and then, well—Covid. Our trip was postponed for years, and it wasn’t until 2023 that we finally made it over.
We had a blast. Killed a lot of birds. Saw even more. The views? Picture Colorado mountains crossed with lush green valleys and the peaceful Cottonwood bottoms of the Midwest. That first hunt was special—but I still hadn’t quite timed it right. We went in May, and while we found plenty of birds, they weren’t gobbling or strutting like they do here in the U.S. spring season.
So in August 2024, I went back—and that’s when it all came together.
That time of year is spring in New Zealand, and the turkeys were doing exactly what we live for: strutting, gobbling, and responding to calls. It felt just like spring hunting at home, but better. That’s when the idea hit—why not build a hunting outfitter focused entirely on the spring turkey season in New Zealand?
That’s how New Zealand Turkey Adventures was born.
We’re proud to be the first and only outfitter in New Zealand focused entirely on springtime Merriam’s turkey hunts—based out of Queenstown, South Island. We offer fully guided hunts on private land, and we supply everything: guns, ammo, meals, lodging, transportation... all you need to bring is your vest, your calls, and your passion for the hunt.
And if you’re looking for a combo trip? August is prime time to tack on red stag, fallow deer, Himalayan tahr, or chamois—before their antlers drop.
This isn’t just a one-time, check-it-off the bucket list kind of trip. It’s the kind of hunt you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Duane Watson
of New Zealand Turkey Adventures
Ready to Make it Happen?
Duane Watson
of New Zealand Turkey Adventures
Ready to Make it Happen?
I started chasing the idea of turkey hunting in New Zealand back in 2015 or 2016. At the time, there wasn’t a single outfitter offering dedicated turkey hunting packages in NZ—everybody wanted to bundle it as an add-on to a red stag hunt. But I wasn’t looking for a side dish. I wanted a full-on spring turkey hunting experience, Merriam’s gobblers and all.
In 2019, I finally connected with an outfitter willing to piece together a true guided turkey hunt in New Zealand for me and five buddies. We had our sights set on 2020... and then, well—Covid. Our trip was postponed for years, and it wasn’t until 2023 that we finally made it over.
We had a blast. Killed a lot of birds. Saw even more. The views? Picture Colorado mountains crossed with lush green valleys and the peaceful Cottonwood bottoms of the Midwest. That first hunt was special—but I still hadn’t quite timed it right. We went in May, and while we found plenty of birds, they weren’t gobbling or strutting like they do here in the U.S. spring season.
So in August 2024, I went back—and that’s when it all came together.
That time of year is spring in New Zealand, and the turkeys were doing exactly what we live for: strutting, gobbling, and responding to calls. It felt just like spring hunting at home, but better. That’s when the idea hit—why not build a hunting outfitter focused entirely on the spring turkey season in New Zealand?
That’s how New Zealand Turkey Adventures was born.
We’re proud to be the first and only outfitter in New Zealand focused entirely on springtime Merriam’s turkey hunts—based out of Queenstown, South Island. We offer fully guided hunts on private land, and we supply everything: guns, ammo, meals, lodging, transportation... all you need to bring is your vest, your calls, and your passion for the hunt.
And if you’re looking for a combo trip? August is prime time to tack on red stag, fallow deer, Himalayan tahr, or chamois—before their antlers drop.
This isn’t just a one-time, check-it-off the bucket list kind of trip. It’s the kind of hunt you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Our room prices
Choose Your Plan
Single Room
$ 45 / night
Cozy Queen Bed
Complimentary Breakfast for One
Free Wi-Fi
Flat-Screen TV with Cable
Daily Housekeeping
Small Suite
$ 55 / night
Spacious Bedroom with King Bed
Separate Sitting Area
Complimentary Breakfast for Two
High-Speed Wi-Fi
Daily Housekeeping
Apartment
$ 72 / night
2 Bedrooms with King and Queen Beds
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Premium Wi-Fi
Multiple TVs with Cable and Streaming
In-Room Laundry
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