eagle27 and Sarg:

I have no dog in the fight but I agree 100% w/ your sentiments. Very reasoned argument, and very well said.

Just one thing. Yes, I know, my obsession...

Control your game species yourselves. Do not under any circumstances allow anyone to convince you and the Game Department of NZ to introduce large predators to bring "balance" or some such to your ecosystem. I have no idea if such ideas exist there, but heli-hunting is infinitely better than dealing with wolves, for example. This may be culturally irrelevant, but with the long history of introductions you have, I would hate to read of some group or individual or, God forbid, Member of Parliament...floating the "brilliant" idea of such a plan.

I really must get to NZ some day. Of all the wonderful input by folks from all over the world, for some reason NZ has really got my attention. Keep the NZ posts coming, and I do wish you the best in this "heli-va" dilemma you are facing...