Flax Hills Hunting

Flax Hills Hunting isn't a corporate outfit—it's a family operation. Karl and Viv Perkins have owned and farmed this Kaikoura property for over 30 years, raising their four children on the land. In 2010, they opened Flax Hills Hunting to share the place they know inside and out with serious hunters.

Karl works as the lead guide with 25+ years of farming and hunting experience on the property. Viv runs the lodge and kitchen, handling everything from meal prep to logistics so hunters can focus on the hunt.

The property sits in New Zealand's high country with elevations from 300 to 550+ meters. The Pacific coastline is 30 minutes away. Terrain ranges from irrigated flats to rolling hills to challenging alpine country, with the Kaikoura Mountain range as the backdrop.

• •Climate reality: Cold winters with frequent frosts and occasional snow. Warm, dry summers. This isn't manicured hunting grounds—it's working ranch land where conditions vary and only hardy animals thrive.

Red Stag - The flagship hunt. Brought to New Zealand from British stock in the 1800s and now the most widely distributed deer species. Flax Hills offers packages from base-level to premium trophy stags. You can upgrade in the field if you find something bigger.

Fallow Buck - Imported from England and Tasmania with distinctive flat "paddled" antlers (more like a moose than a stag). They have more color variation than any other deer species.

Himalayan Bull Tahr - One of the world's most impressive horned game animals. In full winter coat these are spectacular trophies. Hunt them on foot or via helicopter depending on terrain and preference.

Arapawa Ram - Noble wild sheep. This breed was introduced to Arapawa Island in 1867 and thrives there. New Zealand remains one of the few places to hunt wild sheep.

Other Game - Chamois, feral goats, and game birds round out the options. This means flexible itineraries if conditions don't align with your primary target.

Accommodation is included in packages. The main lodge features spacious, well-appointed rooms with views of the surrounding landscape. It's described as rustic charm + modern comfort—not a luxury resort, but a working lodge where hunters actually live during the hunt.

Viv handles the kitchen. Meals are timed around hunting schedules—early breakfast before morning hunts, hearty dinners to unwind after the field. She accommodates dietary requests and special needs. Multiple testimonials mention the food specifically: "out of this world," "exceptional," "superwoman." One couple celebrated their 10th anniversary there.

All packages are fixed-cost and cover: - All necessary hunting equipment - Lodge accommodation - Meals and beverages - Guiding services - Field preparation of trophies - Delivery to taxidermist for export

Day rates are available for non-hunters (spouses, family) who want to experience the property without hunting.

2026/27 Season Pricing Available - Detailed price list breaks down costs by species. Packages are flexible and can be upgraded during your hunt. A 10% deposit secures your booking and transfers to future dates if plans change.

Contact Karl Perkins directly: - Phone: +64 27 4542 454 - Email: [email protected]

"If a New Zealand hunt is on your bucket list look no further. I hunted with Flax Hills for tahr, red stag and fallow in March and I will be coming back!! Not only do they have amazing animals and land to hunt but they are by far the nicest people I have ever hunted with. Their hospitality is second to none." — Scott Newman, Ohio

"Karl and Viv went above and beyond to ensure I had the experience I was looking for. While harvesting a mature stag was my primary goal, I equally enjoyed spending time on other parts of their property learning about their operation. I even had the opportunity to spend time with the ranch hand and working dogs herding sheep." — Andy Linerud, Oregon

"Our entire experience at Flax Hills Hunting was very enjoyable. From the booking, planning and travel to New Zealand, Karl and Viv were engaged throughout the entire process and gracious hosts. My bucket list hunt for a New Zealand Red Stag couldn't have taken place in a more beautiful setting." — Bill Giordanengo, California

The repeat hunter rate is notably high—multiple testimonials mention returning or bringing family back for future hunts.