Roar 2025
IT'S ALMOST TIME... The sign is there, the wallows are fresh and the year's largest hunting season is about to hit. We’re getting prepped, layered up, and ready to get into it. The Roar only comes around once a year in New Zealand, but, what is the ROAR?
What is the roar?
In New Zealand, "The Roar" refers to the peak of the red deer rutting season, which typically occurs from mid-March to late April. This is when red stags become highly vocal, roaring to establish dominance, attract hinds (females), and challenge rival males. It's the best time of year for hunters to target mature stags, as they are more aggressive, territorial, and vocal, making them easier to locate.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE rOAR
🦌 What Happens During The Roar?
- Stags start roaring (deep, guttural calls) to assert dominance and attract mates.
- They move out of hiding and become more visible as they defend harems of hinds.
- Rival stags may engage in fights, locking antlers in brutal battles for breeding rights.
- As a result, it's prime hunting time for those seeking trophy stags.
🎯 Why is The Roar Important for Hunters?
- Easier to Locate Stags: The loud vocalizations make it possible to stalk and call in dominant males.
- High-Quality Trophies: This is when stags are in their prime condition, sporting their best antlers.
- More Hunting Opportunities: Many regions allow public hunting access during this period.
🎯 Why is The Roar Important for Hunters?
Easier to Locate Stags: The loud vocalizations make it possible to stalk and call in dominant males.
High-Quality Trophies: This is when stags are in their prime condition, sporting their best antlers.
More Hunting Opportunities: Many regions allow public hunting access during this period.
🌲 Where to Hunt During The Roar?
Urewera National Park (North Island)
Kaimanawa Forest Park (North Island)
Ruahine & Tararua Ranges (North Island)
Fiordland National Park (South Island)
Southern Alps & West Coast forests (South Island)
Private Hunting Blocks & Stations: Many offer guided hunts with premium trophy opportunities.
📅 When is The Roar in Different Regions?
North Island: Often begins earlier, peaking from mid-March to early April.
South Island: Usually starts later, peaking from late March to mid-April.
Fiordland & Southern Alps: Can extend into late April.
Mistaken Identity: Because hunters use calls to attract stags, it's vital to identify targets correctly. Steep, Remote Terrain: Many prime areas require backcountry navigation and bush survival skills. Weather Conditions: Autumn can bring sudden storms, especially in the Southern Alps.
DoC Hunting Permits: Required for public land hunting (Department of Conservation land). Firearm Licenses: Essential for all hunters using rifles. Roar Ballot System: Some areas, like Fiordland and the West Coast, use a ballot system to manage hunting pressure.
