Fiordland wapiti becomes New Zealand's first Herd of Special Interest

ACT Conservation spokesperson and keen hunter Cameron Luxton has welcomed today's designation of Fiordland's wapiti as New Zealand's first Herd of Special Interest.

"This is recognition of something hunters have known for years, the best conservation often comes from the people who spend the most time in the bush," says Mr Luxton.

"The Fiordland Wapiti Foundation has spent decades looking after this herd and the surrounding environment. They've managed hunting access, maintained huts and tracks, controlled deer numbers, trapped predators, and protected native wildlife, all through the commitment of volunteers.

"Today's designation gives that work the formal backing it deserves. It puts herd management in the hands of the people who have already shown they can deliver better outcomes for both hunters and conservation.

"Healthy herds and a healthy environment go hand in hand. Managing deer numbers properly means less browsing pressure on native vegetation while preserving one of New Zealand's premier hunting opportunities for future generations.

"I also want to acknowledge Minister James Meager for seeing this process through. It's a practical decision that recognises conservation works best when government trusts local expertise instead of trying to do everything from Wellington.

"This shows that hunters aren't just users of the outdoors, they're some of its best custodians. That's something worth recognising, and today New Zealand has done exactly that."