New Zealanders will soon be able to give feedback on draft plans to manage sika and wapiti deer as the country’s first “Herds of Special Interest” (HOSI).

The initiative was announced by Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager alongside Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the Sika Show in Hamilton. 📜 What the Announcement Means Herds of Special Interest (HOSI): The government is proposing to designate sika deer in the Kaimanawa and Kaweka Forest Parks and wapiti deer in Fiordland National Park as the first two HOSI. Hunter-led management: Local conservation and hunting groups would take a leading role in managing herd numbers, balancing recreational hunting opportunities with biodiversity protection. Economic potential: Minister Meager emphasized that healthier, well-managed herds could attract both domestic and international hunters, boosting regional economies. 🧭 Key Features of the Draft Plans Recreational hunting management to ensure sustainable herd sizes. Partnerships and community stewardship with hunter-led conservation groups. Professional deer control and meat recovery to reduce waste and maintain ecological balance. Social and ecological monitoring to track impacts on biodiversity and forest health. 🌱 Conservation Safeguards While the plans aim to enhance hunting opportunities, they also stress that conservation values remain protected. Deer numbers would be kept at levels that support recreational hunting while maintaining forest health and biodiversity. 🤝 Collaboration with Hunting Foundations The draft plans were developed following proposals from: Central North Island Sika Foundation Fiordland Wapiti Foundation Supported by the Game Animal Council Minister Meager praised these organizations for their contributions, calling hunters “one of our biggest conservation assets.” 📢 Next Steps Public consultation will open soon, giving New Zealanders the chance to share their views on how these herds should be managed. The feedback will help shape final management strategies.