The Fiordland Wapiti Foundation

Support the Foundation

Our deer management programs are second to none, recognised as some of the best in the world. Through our adaptive approach, we’ve proven that deer can coexist in New Zealand alongside native species. Operating in a land described as the “Amazon on top of the Himalayas,” we’re tackling one of the most challenging environments on earth.

Who is the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation

We are dedicated to protecting and sharing all the things that make Fiordland Special

The Fiordland Wapiti Foundation is a small, driven group dedicated to preserving this unique place on behalf of Mother Nature and the outdoor community. For 20 years, the Wapiti project has been a monumental effort, and we’re now entering an exciting new era for hunters in New Zealand. Once again, the Wapiti Foundation will lead the way.

However, people who oppose hunting are adapting, and we must evolve to continue our vital work. We need your support to ensure the next 20 years of conservation and hunting in New Zealand. Please consider donating to help us continue this important mission.

Partnerships

The Wapiti Foundation invites you to join us in making a meaningful impact through our partnership opportunities.

Hunting Wapiti is more than just pursuing deer—it’s about fostering mental and physical well-being, preserving ecosystems, and building connections with communities.

Our work in Fiordland goes beyond conservation; it’s about inspiring action and touching hearts and minds.

Guided by a core of dedicated volunteers, the Wapiti Foundation is committed to ethical stewardship, sustainable wildlife management, and innovative conservation projects.

By partnering with us, you can help expand these efforts, achieve shared goals, and be part of preserving this extraordinary environment for future generations.

Conservation
Whio in river

Protecting Native Species

Sponsorship of Predator Trapping Units: Fund individual or multiple trapping units to protect native wildlife.

Sponsorship of a Predator Trapping Project for One Valley: $15,000 per valley, with five valleys available. Includes naming rights and promotional opportunities.

Sponsorship of the Total Predator Trapping Project: Fund all five valleys for comprehensive conservation impact. (Subject to availability).

Wapiti Herd

Deer Management

We have two projects that we are looking to fund:

Home range monitoring.

Deer control below bush line.

We are looking at an adapted management project for below bush line, deer control.

Education

Education

Western Institute of Technology Level 3 Pest Operations Program:

Sponsor an annual award for the top six graduates of the 2025 class. Winners will spend four days in Fiordland learning about the unique Wapiti project.

This sponsorship includes naming rights and promotes hands-on conservation education.

Conservation
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Become a Partner

These partnership opportunities allow businesses and individuals to directly contribute to conservation, education, and community initiatives while gaining meaningful recognition and promotional benefits.

Together, we can protect Fiordland’s unique environment and the species that call it home.

Did You know?
Wapiti Hunters conduct one of New Zealand's largest citizen science projects. Annually amassing over 40,000 hours of native bird monitoring equivalent to 20 years of work for one person.

Wapiti Weekend

Two nights. One community.

Celebrate wapiti, Fiordland, and the people who care for them.

Wāhine Night – Fri 21 Nov.
Stories, laughs, the 2026 Wildcard Draw, a premiere, plus nibbles and good company.

Live Ballot Draw – Sat 22 Nov.
Dinner, auctions, a guest speaker, and the 2025 ballot drawn live on stage.

Tickets are limited! Don’t miss Fiordland’s biggest weekend.