Liberation
Sika Deer three females and one male were first liberated on the eastern edge of the Kaimanawa ranges in the year 1905. Since liberation Sika deer have established themselves over an area incorporating the Kaimanawa, Kaweka and Ahimanawa ranges. In recent years there have also been illegal release throughout the country with fourteen separate populations being recognised.
Characteristics
There has been much debate over the genetic makeup of New Zealand Sika. Variations observed in the New Zealand Sika population suggest that the liberated animals were of mixed breeding reflecting the differing characteristics of the Japanese and Chinese Sika. This can be seen in the large variation in coloration, body size, vocalization and antler formation. Generally summer coloration can be described as of a rich chestnut brown with white to creamy spotting. Winter coloration can be described as anything from a dark chestnut through to gray or black with light spotting.
Vocalisation
Of all the deer liberated in New Zealand Sika would have to be the most vocal. When alarmed both Stags and Hinds will emit a high pitched bark often referred to by hunters as a scream or whistle. Depending on the circumstances this alarm call can carry on for some time with the animal running short distances between calls.
Stags during the rutting period can make a variety of calls, the most often herd by hunters is referred to as the territorial call. This can be described as a series of donkey like hee-haw and can often be herd throughout the day at thirty minute intervals. One theory on this call is the Stag is patrolling his territory displaying his whereabouts to Hinds that may be in season. Another call herd by hunters is referred to as the single call. This call starts at a high pitch descending to a low moan. The popular theory on this call is that the Stag has a Hind is season and is either warning other suitors off or is trying to woe the Hind.
Hunting
There is currently no protection or Game Management in place, therefore Sika can be hunted all year round. The most productive times can be Spring time, and then again during the rutting period. During Spring, September-December and into late summer Sika can be seen away from the sanctuary of bush cover feeding out in the open on spring grasses. During the rutting period, particularly April, Stags can be particularly vulnerable coming to the hunter with an imitation Roar. Using this method the hunter has to extremely alert as the Sika Stag will often sneak in on an unwary hunter, only to have an alarm call blasted in his ear drum while the Stag makes his escape. Sometimes the Stag will sneak off without making a sound, the hunter unaware of the encounter.
Where to hunt
Public Land.
The forest lands administered by the Department of Conservation within the Taupo Tongariro Conservancy offer hunters excellent opportunity to hunt Sika Deer. There has been many trophy animals taken in recent years of world class standard.
These areas include the following: Kaimanawa Forest Park, Tongariro National Park, Rangataua Forest, Rangataiki Conservation Area.
Permits to hunt.
To hunt the lands administered by the Department of Conservation a permit is required, these permits are offered free of charge (Hut fees do apply). For more information please contact the Department of Conservation.
The Department of Conservation.
Conservancy Office
Private Bag
Turanga Place
Turangi
Telephone 07 386 8607
Private Land
Operators holding Concessions for Private Land.
Heli Sika (access to public and private hunting & Fishing) Telephone 07 384 2816
Air Charter Taupo (access to public and private hunting & Fishing) Telephone 07 378 5467
Lake Land Helicopters (access to public and private hunting & Fishing) Telephone 07 378 0085
Trophies
A typical Sika Trophy would consist of a Stag holding eight points, four on each side. To be eligible for the New Zealand Record Book held by the New Zealand Deer Stalkers Association (NZDA), the Trophy must measure at least 170 on the Douglas Score System. The New Zealand Bowhunters Society (NZBS) keep thier own Record Books. The top ten Sika taken with a Bow based also on the Douglas Score System will be recorded. The top four NZBS Sika Records are also eligible for the New Zealand Record Book Held by the NZDA.
