Red Deer

Cervus elaphus is New Zealand’s most widespread introduced deer. It differs from wapiti through its generally smaller size and less massive, differently shaped antlers. Adults have reddish-brown summer coats that turn greyer in winter. Stags carry branching antlers and develop a heavy neck during the rut.

Red deer occupy both main islands from forest to alpine grassland. Large wild populations occur in Fiordland and Nelson Lakes national parks. They browse shrubs and tree seedlings and graze grasses and herbs. Stags roar and compete for females during the autumn rut.

New Zealand treats red deer as Introduced. Fiordland National Park and Nelson Lakes National Park offer possible sightings, usually at quiet edges.