Introduction, impacts, and management of non-native deer and other hunted ungulates in New Zealand

Abstract

Hunting of deer and other ungulates has long been part of human culture in most parts of the world, but not in New Zealand (or Australia) w h e r e t h e y w e r e a b s e n t u n t i l E u r o p e a n colonisation began in the 18th century. As nonnative species, their presence in New Zealand is controversial as they can have significant impacts on environmental and productive assets. However, stakeholders sometimes disagree about the significance of these impacts and how wild ungulates should be managed. Hunters and some other groups usually see these animals as resources, whereas conservationists see them as pests. Here we provide a brief background to the controversy and summarise how it has influenced the historic management of deer and other hunted ungulates. Finally, we discuss future challenges and options for their management.