Most Tahr hunting is done in the higher elevations of the New Zealand Alpines.  Some of these mountains are covered with 2-3’ tall clumps of Tussock Grass and some are rocky outcroppings of rocks and broken shale.  Starting in June, these same mountains could also have snow on them.  Make sure you have good boots that are broken in.  Since you may be hunting in snow, you will want your boots insulated and waterproof.  If you are hunting on a mountainside of tussock grass, wear a good pair of gators.  The gators will keep the snow or morning dew from getting your hunting pants wet and cold.  Premium optics is essential.  Buy the best “glass” you can afford.  I recommend a binocular harness as it will come in handy when traversing shale and lose rocks.  This will keep your binoculars from getting bounced around or worse, banged on a rock.  Most Tahr rifle shots will be in the 150 to 250 yard range.  A good range finder will come in handy for both rifle and bow hunters.  At 300 plus pounds, the Tahr is a good size trophy animal.  I would recommend 7mm or larger and 164 grain or larger expandable bullet.  A good 3,000 fps .30 caliber with an 180 grain expandable bullet is ideal for Tahr.  Your rifle should be equipped with a good quality scope in the 3×9 or 2.5×10 magnification.  I would also recommend a good backpack that is capable of carrying your rifle or bow.  This will keep your hands free when moving across the mountainsides.  If you are bow hunting, a good bow hunting guide can usually get you within 40-50 yards of your Tahr during the rut.  Taking a trophy Tahr is quite an accomplishment with a bow.  Allow yourself extra hunting days.  Your biggest challenges in Tahr hunting are the nannies giving their warning whistle as you stalk your Bull Tahr.

Rick Kennerknecht
Hunting Consultant
Global Sporting Safaris, Inc.