Status and future management of the wild animal recovery industry

Authors: C.N. Challies
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1991, Issue N.Z.J.For. 36(1) 1991, pp 10-17, May 1991
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Aerial hunting using helicopters (i.e. wild animal recovery) has been the dominant force in the management of wild deer in New Zealand for the last 20-25 years. In that time it has made productive use of about 1.5 million animals, and has virtually eliminated the need for publicly-funded deer control. Since the early 1970s the industry has suffered a progressive decrease in productivity, and is now only marginally economic. If this trend continues, a contraction of the industry could allow animal numbers to increase again in remote areas. Central Govenrment needs to introduce effective measures to ensure the industry's continued viability, and strengthen its animal control role. It is concluded that a large-block, sole-operator option would be a long-term solution to what will otherwise be an ongoing problem.

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