I couldn't believe it. I was expecting an easy hunt but my guide (who is a part owner of Huntech clothing and has been guiding for 43 years) said, 'NO, we are doing it the NZ way. On foot from the start' (Gulp). Then we bump this boy metres from the hut. I hope to go back in 3-4 years and take an off-spring of the Czech stags.

The thing was, the place is Boutique. Not 5 star but full on traditional and limited access. I have invited Phil my guide to join the forum. I hope he or the owner John, will join and post and correct anything I have said that is wrong. John the owner is a real rifle nut and they both hunt the South Is. tops every year. Real hunting Gentlemen and an honour to meet.

Phil ran hunts in Mongolia for 10 years, was a South Is guide and volunteer rescue chopper door man as well. His job then was to 'look after the Paramedic'. Well he did that this time too.

Mike Harrison from the ADA and his Tassie mate Steve (top bloke) were on the same plane and organised thei hunt through the same owner. We were all on the grog (except Mike) the first night. They went hunting Sika on the tops. Man, are those fellas full on deer hunters and in a class of their own.

Sorry Mark, I'm still a PG man. Yes, they were all roaring. Very deep, gutteral and resonate.