Your link didnt work - this might be better...
Otago Heads

OK maybe 24-26 is over the top but they arent exactly running around everywhere (in game parks either) today.

Wonder what size heads were taken in other areas?

I can understand the idea of keeping the old genetics separate from the modern European blood but I think NZ as a whole will be a better polace in the future with that infusion of new blood into some of the wild herds. Lord knows those herds need all the help they can get - as the govt of the day is adament that they be destroyed...