Get Ready For Your Hunt
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking Your New Zealand Hunting Experience.
Planning your hunt with Metanoia Ventures is simple - we’re here to make your adventure seamless from the moment you decide to book, to the final day in the hills. Below is everything you need to know before committing to your trip.
Your Adventure Starts Here
Getting Here
Our lodge is located near Wanaka in New Zealand’s stunning South Island. The closest airport is Queenstown (ZQN), just 1 hour from the lodge.
Most international hunters arrive in Auckland (AKL) and take a short 1 hour 35-minute domestic flight to Queenstown. From there, we’ll handle your airport transfers - no stress, no hassle.
Flight Information
New Zealand’s hunting season offers varied conditions to suit your preferences:
If you are flying into Queenstown Airport, we offer complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off. To arrange this, we require your full flight itinerary - including arrival and departure times, airline, and flight numbers.
If you are arriving into a different airport (such as Christchurch or Auckland) and plan to travel to Wanaka independently, please advise us of your travel route - This ensures we can be fully prepared to welcome you and assist with logistics if needed.
Please be aware that New Zealand Customs can take some time to inspect your hunting gear upon arrival in the country. Ensure you allow ample time for your connecting flight should you be arriving elsewhere in New Zealand and transiting down to Queenstown.
Need more travel advice? Chat to our Travel Assistant prior to your trip.
Rifle & Bow Hunts
Planning to bring your own hunting rifle for your adventure?
You'll need to complete a firearms import application through New Zealand Firearm Safety Authority. This process requires a confirmed plane ticket and a minimum of 3 months’ notice to allow time for approval.
Once you're ready to apply, please get in touch with us so we can assist and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Please note you do not need a permit to bring a hunting bow into New Zealand.
Season & Weather
New Zealand’s hunting season offers varied conditions to suit your preferences:
-
February to mid-April: Warm, settled weather—ideal for early season hunts with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).
-
May: Cooler temperatures begin to roll in, bringing fresh morning air and stunning autumn colours—perfect stalking weather.
-
June to August: Our winter season. Expect cold, crisp mornings and potential snow in alpine areas. Temps typically range from -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F), making for prime Red Stag and Tahr hunting conditions.
We’ll send you a comprehensive gear list well ahead of your trip so you can pack confidently and arrive fully prepared for New Zealand’s unique terrain and weather.
Communication & GPS
If you are traveling from overseas, we recommend enabling international roaming or purchasing a local SIM card for communication during your stay. Reliable reception may be limited in remote hunting areas, but we will always have satellite communication on hand for emergencies.
Please note that for those going on a Drop Camp Hunt - you must provide your own GPS tracker and Satellite Phone for the duration of your hunt. This equipment will be inspected by our head guide prior to your trip to ensure it meets all of our safety guidelines.
New Zealand Visa
All international visitors must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before arriving. It’s a quick, online process that grants you entry as a tourist. All visitors must hold a valid visa prior to their arrival and for the duration of their trip in New Zealand (children and non-hunters included).
Double-check your passport has more than 6 months validity prior to travel and visa application.
Gear & Clothing
We’ll provide you with a comprehensive Packing List well before your hunt to ensure you’re fully prepared.
New Zealand’s terrain and weather can change quickly, even within a single day - expect anything from sunshine to rain, and cold alpine winds. Layering is essential, and high-quality waterproof outerwear is a must for staying comfortable and dry in the field.
If you’re unsure about what to bring, or if you’d prefer to hire gear or equipment, just let us know in advance - we’re happy to help you get sorted.
Luggage & Travelling With Meat
When packing for your hunt, keep in mind that New Zealand’s domestic airlines have strict baggage weight limits. We strongly recommend checking your airline’s baggage allowance in advance, especially considering the gear and clothing you'll need for your hunt.
Soft-sided duffel bags are preferred - they’re easier to handle and more practical for loading into vehicles and helicopters where needed.
For those traveling to and from the U.S.A., you’re allowed to bring back up to 55 lbs of venison in your luggage. To make this possible, we suggest traveling with -or purchasing in New Zealand - a soft Yeti cooler bag or similar high-quality, airline-compliant cooler.
We’ll freeze your meat prior to your departure, but please note: depending on your travel duration and transit conditions, some thawing may occur, and Metanoia Ventures cannot be held liable for any spoilage due to defrosting in transit.
Meet Our Travel Advisor
From the moment you book to the day you arrive, Megan is here to ensure every detail of your trip runs smoothly. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality and tourism - including 7+ years in New Zealand’s luxury travel scene -Megan is your go-to for everything behind the scenes.
You’ll hear from her regarding terms & conditions, pre-arrival forms, guest details, and she’s also on hand to help you plan beyond-the-hunt experiences -from wine tours to scenic adventures.
Think of Megan as your personal travel concierge, making sure no detail is missed.
Explore Wanaka & Queenstown
Beyond the Hunt, our Private Host and Travel Assistant can be available to assist family and friends joining you in New Zealand outside of your hunting experience. From private distillery tours and wineries, to hook to plate experiences, shopping trips, luxurious day spas, and adventure activities in both Wanaka and Queenstown - trust us when we say we're the locals who know the best spots!
Get in Touch
Enquire now about your Metanoia Ventures Experience
+64 (0) 2 102 554 411
