Today, sika inhabit all of Kaimanawa and Kaweka Mountain ranges and much of the fringe country. They have a distinct liking for dense scrub and become most difficult to hunt. This herd of sika would be the largest and most important herd available to hunters worldwide. Like the other deer, their antlers exceed anything grown in their home country. They are a most sought after trophy and exist in large numbers.
Sika are a pretty deer, being slightly smaller than red, and have a small petite face.
They are also considered to be one of the most cunning of all deer species. This species inhabit a small area within the Urawera National park and every year several good trophies are taken. They are best hunted during the roar which for these deer is August. Similar to the Rusa they are better hunted during August to October but because this herd was nearly hunted to extinction in New Zealand by spotlighters and dog teams they are now under protection and subject to a ballot permit system. I will add some more on sambar as time permits.