What began as an aristocratic gift intended to enhance New Zealand’s hunting grounds eventually became a major ecological management challenge. According to Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand, the first successful introduction of red deer occurred in 1861, when Lord Petre sent three deer from England to Nelson.

What began as an aristocratic gift intended to enhance New Zealand’s hunting grounds eventually became a major ecological management challenge. According to Te Ara - The…

Discover how three red deer introduced to New Zealand in 1861 transformed into a national pest, leading to the culling of millions and the rise of a commercial venison industry.