Projects – Safari Club International (New Zealand Chapter)

Projects

AORANGI RESTORATION TRUST

Comprised of diverse individuals united by a common goal, the Aorangi Restoration Trust is dedicated to revitalizing the Aorangi Forest Park in South Wairarapa and surrounding areas. Supported by numerous individuals and organisations sharing their vision, the Trust aims to return these lands to their former splendor.

Regular meetings and collaborative efforts drive the Trust’s projects and work programs. Guiding their endeavors is a Steering Group representing key stakeholders such as the Department of Conservation, Greater Wellington Regional Council, TB Free NZ, local Iwi, recreational hunting representatives, and Trust members.

The Aorangi Forest Park, a favoured recreational hunting ground, remains a priority for restoration without compromising its appeal to hunters. The Trust endeavors to restore the area’s biodiversity while maintaining an exceptional hunting experience.

Originally home to Windsor blood-line red deer introduced in the early 20th century, the Trust receives support from hunters, including assistance from SCINZ in pest control efforts. SCINZ’s contributions, including funding traps and member Wayne Roper’s dedicated management of the traps in controlling pests and fostering a thriving ecosystem.

With ongoing progress and dedicated management, the future looks promising for the Aorangi herd and the restoration efforts of the Trust.

LAME DUCK HUT

Lame Duck Hut, nestled along the serene banks of the Karangarua River in Westland National Park, is a collaborative effort between the West Coast Branch of the NZDA and the Safari Club International New Zealand Chapter.

Our joint ownership entails the responsibility for maintaining this rustic abode. While we oversee the upkeep, the Department of Conservation also maintains a vested interest due to its location within the national park.

Originally constructed in 2008 to replace the dilapidated Lame Duck Hut, this new structure was a labour of love by members of NZDA West Coast and SCINZ. Generously donated helicopter time by James Scott facilitated the construction process. Although a mishap occurred during transportation, causing some setbacks, the dedication of our members prevailed. With the groundwork laid, including piles and trusses salvaged from the old McCormick’s Hut, the hut’s completion involved erecting walls and cladding with corrugated iron — a task predominantly undertaken by the NZDA West Coast Branch.

Now open for public use, Lame Duck Hut welcomes adventurers seeking solace amidst nature’s embraces. Hut fees contribute to ongoing maintenance efforts by both organisations, ensuring this haven remains accessible for generations to come.

STAN’S HUT

Stan’s hut owes its existence to former Westland hunting guide, concession holder and foundation member, Stan Peterson.

Originally operating out of a tent camp Stan was quick to realise how much more suitable it would be to accommodate his clients in a comfortable, basic hut in the high rainfall, Whataroa Valley. He duly applied for and was granted permission to locate a hut high on the Spencer Range in 1985.

As Stan’s guiding days ended, he decided to gift it to SCINZ, since then, SCINZ and DOC have arranged for retention of the hut, SCI recently completed an upgrade of the hut and can’t thank James Scott enough.

This hut has been a great base for hunts in the surrounding area with some SCINZ members have taken some notable chamois trophies from the rugged and magnificent terrain nearby.

Free for use of SCINZ members. For non-members, a daily charge applies.