Government begins process to designate country's first Herd of Special Interest.
The New Zealand government has initiated the formal process to consider designating its first Herd of Special Interest (HOSI) following a proposal submitted by the Central North Island Sika Foundation. The proposed HOSI, covering over 125,000 hectares in Kaimanawa and Kaweka Forest Parks, aims to enhance hunter participation in sika deer management and reduce animal numbers to achieve sustainable forest regeneration.
According to Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager, hunters are a crucial conservation tool for New Zealand, and the proposed HOSI would complement efforts by local landowners to manage the deer population. The next phase will involve targeted consultation with stakeholders, including government agencies, regional councils, conservation boards, and iwi. Public consultation on a draft sika herd management plan is expected to begin after targeted consultation is complete.
The goals of the proposed HOSI are to improve hunter satisfaction with sika venison quality and hunting experience while maintaining or improving conservation values. The proposal reflects the ongoing passion of the Central North Island Sika Foundation for improving the management and health of the central North Island sika herd and its environment.